anne rice talks WINDY CITY THE VOICE OF CHICAGO’S GAY, LESBIAN, BI AND TRANS COMMUNITY SINCE 1985 Feb. 16, 2011 vol 26, no. 20 page 24 TIMES www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com Equality Illinois Marks 20 Years

mayoral forum on lgbt issues page 10

Equality Illinois co-founder Art Johnston leads a toast at the group’s gala Feb. 12 at the Hilton Chicago. With him are event chair Mark Cozzi and EI board first vice president Dalila Fridi. The parade of politicians at the event included Gov. Pat Quinn, Attorney General Lisa Madigan, Treasurer Dan Rutherford, Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka, U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley, and mayoral candidates Rahm Emanuel and Gery Chico. Many aldermanic candidates and sitting politicians also attended, and President Barack Obama sent his well wishes on EI’s 20th anniversary in a letter. There was only one protester at the event calling attention to the firing of EI co-founder Rick Garcia, and only one brief mention of his first name was made GLN’S ‘FREEDOM TO at the event. Garcia’s firing several weeks ago caused concern among some activists. Photo by Kat Fitzgerald/www.mysticimagesphotography.com. See many more photos inside and also online at www.windycitymediagroup.com MARRY’ RALLY page 9 Kiss, Congeniality A couple shows affection (left) and National Museum of Mexican Art Director of Perform- ing Arts National Museum of Mexican Art Jorge Valdivia (below) speaks at Lambda Le- gal’s annual Freedom to Marry gala, held Feb. 8 at the museum. Among the events were bouquet-tossing and a skit about the state’s new civil-unions measure, which will take ef- fect June 1. Photos by Kat Fitzgerald (Mys- ticImagesPhotography.com); see page 15. chicago auto show page 28



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February 16, 2011

Oscar-worthy Get the red carpet pick it up treatment with Mercedes at the Lincoln Hall Oscar party. take it home page 19

Happy The richness Valentines, of Amanda Nightspots-style. Lepore. page 13 page 11 2 Feb. 16, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES

CHICAGO NEEDS A BIG MAYOR TO TAKE ON THIS BIG JOB. CHICAGO NEEDS RAHM EMANUEL. Chicago thrives on its diversity. Rahm Emanuel has been a supporter of equality for the LGBT community throughout his life. He has fought for legal protection, funding and opportunity across the diverse spectrum of our community.

WE are proud to be part of the LGBT and Allied Committee in support of Rahm Emanuel for Mayor. We urge you to vote for Rahm February 22.

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-!.5%, WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 16, 2011 3 You owe it to yourself to visit... this week in Bob Rohrman’s OFFICIAL PROUD OFFICIAL WINDY CITY TIMES ARLINGTON KIA IN PALATINE VEHICLE PARTNER VEHICLE NEWS ENTERTAINMENT/EVENTS Black History Month profiles 4 Scottish Play Scott 19 35($8726+2: Vida/SIDA; Shepard, Wilchins 6 Theater reviews 20 Vernita Gray; arrests; Darrow 8 Knight: Kaboom, ...Number Four 22 GLN protest at Holy Name 9 Gregg Araki interview 23 Election ‘11: Forum 10 Anne Rice talks with WCT 24 Election ‘11: Charts 12 Book review: Axis Sally 25 HBHC’s Ron Nunziato 14 Nora Dunn interview 26 6$/(6(9(17 Freedom to Marry reception 15 Tim Cain on ABSOLUTE Fringe 27 Equality Illinois gala photos 16 Chicago Auto Show pics 28 Brand New 2011 Kia Brand New 2011 Kia View by Monroe; letters 18 Kate Clinton talks comedy 29 Billy Masters 33 FORTE LX SORENTO LX Photos on cover (left, from top): Anne Rice 4038 3871 pic by Matthias Scheer; Carol Moseley Braun OUTLINES image by Hal Baim; Image from Gay Libera- Real estate; classifieds 30 tion Network Feb. 13 rally from the group; Calendar Q 32 Auto image by Andrew Davis Sports: Hudson Taylor 34

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Discover the interesting bits Diamond Rings had to say during a recent 1(:6(59,&(+2856 plus interview. We service all makes and models! DAILY BREAKING NEWS Photo by Norman Wong MONDAY TUESDAY-FRIDAY SATURDAY 7:30AM-8:00PM 7:30AM-5:30PM 8:00AM-NOON

It’s Oscar time with Gay 1400 E. DUNDEE Rd. Mercedes! 

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February 16, 2011 Parenting One block west of Show #404 Oscar-worthy Get the red carpet treatment with w/ author Rte. 53 on Dundee Rd. Mercedes at the Lincoln Hall Oscar party. nightspots page 19 Mary Bowers

Happy The richness 888-844-1089 Valentines, of Amanda Nightspots-style. Lepore. page 13 page 11 Find Nightspots on www.WindyCityQueercast.com www.ArlingtonKia.com 4 Feb. 16, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES Black History Month profiles ONLINE AT Giffords’ hero WINDYCITYMEDIAGROUP.COM Hernandez NATIONAL NEWS of Review awards and a Black Reel Award. Mon- to be honored ster’s Ball was the first production from Lee Dan- Daniel Hernandez, Jr.—the openly gay in- iels Entertainment—a company started by Dan- tern who is credited with helping to save the iels. Prior to his work on Monster’s Ball, Daniels life of Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords in a worked as a casting director on the films Under January mass shooting in Tucson, Ariz.—will the Cherry Moon and Purple Rain. speak at a Feb. 19 luncheon at the 29th An- Following the success of Monster’s Ball, Dan- —Ebony magazine nual National Conference of the United States iels produced the Kevin Bacon/Kyra Sedgwick featuring lesbians Hispanic Leadership Institute (USHLI). film The Woodsman in 2004. He would make his The USHLI conference will be held Feb. 17- directorial debut with the film Shadowboxer in —Harrisburg, Penn., 20 at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers, 2006. Shadowboxer starred Helen Mirren, Cuba mayor accused 301 E. North Water. The luncheon will take Gooding, Jr., Mo’Nique, Joseph Gorden-Levitt, of homophobia place 12:15-1:45 p.m. and Macy Gray (among others). 2008 would In a statement Hernandez said, “I really do bring the film production of Tennessee starring —Target teaming not consider myself a hero, but I am extremely E. Denise Simmons. Adam Rothenberg, Ethan Peck, Mariah Carey and humbled by the idea that great organizations Lance Reddick. with Lady Gaga (left), such as USHLI believe that I am. To me, the Daniels teamed up again in 2009 with real heroes are the people that spend their Ricky Martin E. Denise Simmons entire lives helping others.” Former Cambridge, Mass., Mayor E. Denise Sim- For more about USHLI and the conference, mons was the first openly-gay African American visit http://www.ushli.org. mayor in United States history. Adding to the Mo’Nique and Mariah Carey for the two-time landmark appointment was the fact that Sim- Academy Award-winning film Precious. The mons won the seat unanimously. Her term lasted movie was based on the novel Push by Sapphire Rumsfield from 2008-2009. and depicted a tumultuous mother-daughter re- supports end Simmons made the following statement fol- lationship on the brink of multiple emotional di- lowing her election: sasters. Daniels would be honored at the GLAAD of military gay ban “Just like being a Cantabrigian, a grand- Media Awards in 2010 for his work on the film Palm Center Director Aaron Belkin issued a mother, a Justice of the Peace, a small business and for being a celebrated gay Black director in statement in response to former Defense Sec- owner, and Mayor, being gay is part of who I film. retary Donald Rumsfeld’s comments in sup- am. I live in a city where my friends, family and The Simmons and Daniels selections are port of the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” colleagues just know me as Denise, not as the from the forthcoming book Black, Gifted and On Feb. 11, Rumsfeld told ABC News Radio that repealing the ban on openly gay service first African American lesbian mayor. One of the Lee Daniels. Photo from Amanda Wehr Gay by LGBT media pioneer Leyla Farah (with main reasons that public service has drawn me assistance from LGBT celebrity reporter Sarah is “an idea whose time has come.” is that I believe in fairness and equality for all Toce). “With Secretary Rumsfeld’s statement that people, whether they are gay or straight, African the ‘time has come’ to repeal the ban, there American or of another background, women or are now three Republican Secretaries of De- men. fense—Cohen, Gates, and Rumsfeld—who “Equity and access to services and opportuni- have come down on the side of allowing gays ties is what raises all of us to a higher quality and lesbians to serve openly,” Belkin said. of life. I started the GLBT Commission in Cam- “Support for the end of ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ bridge for that reason, to engage the broader is unambiguous and transcends party lines. community in policy issues that would make We have now entered the next phase of the Cambridge a better place to live and work for repeal process in which certification and gay individuals and families. I’m proud of the implementation should be completed swiftly progress the Commission has made. All of my in keeping with the practices that have been work centers around civic engagement—I truly proven to minimize any disruption to the believe that is how the strongest communities military.” are built, on the vision, involvement and actions Belkin added that former Vice President and of their citizens. Although being a lesbian is not Defense Secretary Dick Cheney stated in 2010 something that defines my work, I realize that that it was “time to reconsider the policy.” this is a great step for the GLBT community and I am truly honored to have this opportunity to be a leader.”

Lee Daniels Donald Fifty-year-old, openly-gay producer/director Rumsfeld. Lee Daniels was the first African-American solo producer of an Academy Award-winning film, for Monster’s Ball (starring Halle Berry, Billy Bob Thornton and Heath Ledger). The 2001 film about race, politics, feminism and the legal sys- tem won a Screen Actors Guild Award (SAG) for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role (Halle Berry), two National Board

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In addition, Vida/SIDA will be participants from Vida/SIDA’s annual is opening an “entrepreneurial incubator” for Paseo Boricua Female Impersonator Pageant, Vida/SIDA to open transgender people and queer women. The Divi- which spotlights Latino/a transgender women, sion street storefront will open next month and drag queens and female impersonators. LGBTQ homeless shelter help participants get trained, certified, and de- Calderón and Sanabria said that many people velop business plans. Youth staying in the Vida/ in the neighborhood are supportive of both the by Kate Sosin SIDA transitional home will have an opportunity incubator and the transitional housing projects, to hone their skills as well. including current 35th Ward Alderman, Rey While much attention in past months has been Roberto Sanabria is a board member of the Colón. But the two say the projects’ biggest ad- paid to Lake View-based organizations like How- Puerto Rican Cultural Center, which oversees vocate has been Rick Garcia, the now-former po- ard Brown for its near closure and Equality Illi- Vida/SIDA. He said the incubator is closely- litical director of Equality Illinois whose recent nois for its firing of Rick Garcia, Humboldt Park- linked to the plan for an LGBTQ shelter because firing spurred outrage from some in the LGBTQ based HIV outreach organization Vida/SIDA has both will be necessary to change the circum- community. Garcia will be honored by Vida/SIDA been on track to do something no other organi- stances of homeless youth in the community. at its March 25 fundraiser for the shelter. zation in the Midwest has done. “You don’t want to put a band-aid on a prob- Calderón is hopeful that with Garcia’s help, Vida/SIDA is preparing to open the region’s lem,” he said. “The problem is economic.” Vida/SIDA can secure the support it needs to fin- first LGBTQ homeless shelter. If all goes as Juan Calderón said that transgender youth ish the shelter and to grow the project further. planned, the shelter will open by August. of color in Chicago have a particularly difficult Calderón experienced homelessness in Humboldt “We have the space,” said Vida/SIDA Director time finding work because they face discrimina- Park himself at the age of 16. He knows that Juan Calderón. “It’s just a matter of finishing tion. Calderón and Sanabria hope the incubator that Chicago needs more than 15 beds for queer the bureaucracy.” can provide a more sustainable solution to LG- homeless youth. “My goal is to create this at a Vida/SIDA will relocate its current Division BTQ homelessness. citywide level,” he said. “I want for them to feel Street office into a building next door, and con- Youth in the incubator will be able to learn like it’s their home, that they’re not in some sort vert its three floors into transitional apartments: sewing, cosmetology, hair dressing, and other of institution just because they’re homeless.” one floor each for homeless gay men, lesbians skills based on their interests and talents. They Vida/SIDA will hold a fundraiser for the and transgender people. The shelter will house will also learn how to run their own businesses. transitional housing project on Friday, Feb. 15 young people, for up to two years each. “It is a community grassroots approach to de- 18, 6:30-8 p.m., at Roberto Clemente High The project is more than two years in the Roberto Sanabria (left) and Juan Calderón. Photo by Kate Sosin velop entrepreneurship in Chicago,” said Calde- School, 1147 N. Western. Tickets are $25. making. Vida/SIDA had announced the shelter rón. More information on both the February and project as a 2010 goal last January, but strug- The incubator, a bright two-room shop which the March fundraisers can be found at http:// gled through fundraising and red tape to make said Calderón. “I would really like to encourage some of the LGBTQ constituents of Chicago to sits less than a block from Vida/SIDA, is cur- prcc-chgo.org/vidasida. it happen. Calderón said Vida/SIDA needs the rently being renovated. Its first entrepreneurs kind of support that many LGBT people give Lake really contribute to some other organizations View-based organizations if the project is to [than they usually contribute to].” succeed. Vida/SIDA raised more than $300,000 Vida/SIDA is the only HIV/AIDS outreach for the project with help from local politicians, organization that specifically serves LGBTQ La- Shepard, Wilchins but it remains $50,000 shy of its goal. tino/as. The organization opened in 1988 to ad- talk gender, A 2007 report from the National Gay and Les- dress a lack of culturally competent healthcare bian Task Force calls LGBTQ youth homelessness for HIV-positive Puerto Ricans. Over the years, hate crimes an “epidemic,” and asserted that LGBTQ youth Vida/SIDA has expanded to address social, po- By Kate Sosin are often violently targeted by straight peers litical, and economic issues facing its constitu- in the shelter system. Several studies in recent ents, but it has also struggled through difficult The audience at a Feb. 10 Chicago Lakeshore years suggest that youth of color, especially economic times, most notably in 2004 when it Hospital presentation received a hate crimes transgender youth of color, face homelessness nearly shut down for lack of funds. and gender education from two LGBTQ giants. at alarmingly high rates. Today, the organization is growing. The shelter Riki Wilchins, best known as a founder of Camp “I think that solidarity is very important,” is not the only ambitious project Vida/SIDA is Trans and the author of Read My Lips: Sexual Subversion and the End of Gender, and Judy Shepard, the mother of slain 21-year-old Mat- thew Shepard, each gave talks to a room of more than 100 people. The event, “Addressing Hatred & Strength- ening the LGBT Community through Personal Action & Professional Support,” was hosted in Judy Shepard. Photo by Kate Sosin partnership with Loyola University at the col- lege’s downtown law school. While the event was intended for mental health clinicians, the people to work for legislative protections for Lessons begin March 1 talk attracted several LGBTQ people interested LGBT people. in meeting Wilchins and Shepard. Riki Wilchins focused on bullying and gender expectations in children. Wilchins is the direc- Starting at $105, you get four lessons Judy Shepard spoke at length about how her gay son, Matthew, whose Laramie, Wyo., tor of programs and research for TrueChild, a over four weeks taught by top pros. murder in 1998 sparked national anti-hate non-profit dedicated to research and educa- You’ll also enjoy two parties, our crime campaigns and resulted in the Matthew tion around adolescents and gender roles. She argued that much of what was been reported practice lanes and fitness center. Shepard Act, which added gender identity and sexual orientation to hate-crimes legislation. as anti-gay bullying among youth is actually Judy Shepard currently serves as the chair of gender-based violence, as many young people Don’t have a racquet? the Matthew Shepard foundation. are bullied before they are sexually active be- We’ll lend you one. Shepard appeared nervous as she took the cause they disobey gender roles. “We need to start engaging people in a dis- Busy schedule? podium. “I’m not a professional at this,” she said in a shaky voice. “I’m a mom with a sto- cussion about gender norms,” Wilchins said. We’ve got tons of times ry.” “When you have an 11-year-old kid who kills to choose from. She recalled the months leading up to her himself because someone calls him a faggot. son’s murder and then read the same victim … It’s about gender. ... Gender is how we in- dex homosexuality.” Midtown membership impact statement she read on April 5, 1999, at the sentencing trial for her son’s killer. “I was Wilchins urged people to talk to kids not just not required. thinking, how can anyone be so threatened by about homophobia but about gender stereo- Space is limited. this sweet tiny child that they would do this to types. She wants kids to challenge ideas about him?” Shepard said. masculinity, which she said can effect deci- Shepard emphasized that while she didn’t sions young people make about their bodies, 773.235.2300 feel it was her responsibility to forgive Aaron sex, and how they treat other people. She also McKinney and Russell Henderson, her son’s kill- said ideas about masculinity can have negative ers, she felt that anti-gay hate was something impacts for the LGBTQ community. they were taught. “When you look at why some gay men don’t Shepard called on audience members to edu- wear condoms…it’s about masculinity,” she cate against anti-gay bias. “Matt is no longer said. “The biggest weapon in the gender sys- with us because two men learned that it was tem is not violence. It’s shame.” 2020 West Fullerton Avenue O.K. to hate,” she said. “We are growing in Presentations concluded with a question Chicago, IL 60647 numbers, and I don’t think it’s because there and answer session with a panel that included are more of us. It’s because there are more of Shepard and Wilchins as well as David Fischer midtown.com us talking about it.” from Illinois Safe Schools and Dr. Peter Nier- She ended her presentation by encouraging man from Chicago Lakeshore Hospital. WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 16, 2011 7 8 Feb. 16, 2011 Cassidy, interviewed about the cuts, said a big LGBT liaison chunk of the states attorney’s prevention budget “is just gone. It was not a desire to eliminate Marriage activists arrested this unit, but there were no other real choices. among state’s It is not something that [Anita Alvarez] thinks is for the good of the office or the community. attorney’s cuts There’s going to be an unfortunate impact be- By Tracy Baim cause of this.” Cassidy commented about Gray’s layoff: “There Longtime lesbian activist Vernita Gray, who is not anyone who would suggest that she was worked in the Cook County state’s attorney’s of- not a valued member of the staff and that the fice for almost 18 years, was among those laid work she does is not important and central to off in the recent budget cuts ordered by Cook what we do. It is a huge loss to the office and to County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. Gray’s the community. I’m really sad.” most recent position was LGBT liaison, and she Alvarez, who attended the Equality Illinois had previously served as a victim/witness coor- gala Feb. 12, sent Windy City Times the follow- dinator. ing statement about Gray, noting that she was The current LGBT Hate Crimes Victim Witness “disappointed to lose Gray in the cutbacks im- coordinator, Ann Huffman, did keep her post, as posed” by Preckwinkle: “Vernita has been a trailblazer for justice and change on the important issues that affect our communities, particularly those that impact the citizens of our LGBT communities,” Alvarez said. “She is recognized for her commitment to serv- ing people and being a voice for those who have not always had one in the criminal justice sys- On Valentine’s Day, six activists were arrested at the marriage-bureau office in Daley Plaza tem. I was very proud to have Vernita lead our after they insisted on a marriage license for a same-sex couple, according to a press release. efforts and I am deeply saddened to lose her.” The activists, from the pro-LGBTQ groups Join the Impact-Chicago and Video Action League, were responding to a call from GetEQUAL and Marriage Equality USA to raise awareness about federal marriage equality. Cassandra Avenatti, Lindsey Dietzler, Corrine Mina and Noa Francis Shayden approached Death penalty the marriage counter and asked for a license for the couple, Judy Heithmar and Danelle the focus Wylder, who was dressed as Lady Justice. “This is about equality,” said Wylder, a member of Join the Impact Chicago. “It’s about how we as queer couples deserve the same govern- of annual Clarence mental rights and protections afforded to our heterosexual counterparts to legally protect Darrow event our families.” The others took turns reading from the list of 1,138 rights denied to LGBTQ couples by the federal government. March 13 Although Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn signed the civil-unions bill into law recently, the activ- ists wanted to communicate that the move is not enough. In addition, GetEQUAL IL released CHICAGO—Aficionados of the legendary attor- a statement saying, “Action is taken today to highlight the need for the repeal of the De- Vernita Gray. Photo by Hal Baim ney Clarence Darrow will gather at the Darrow fense Of Marriage Act, nationwide state marriage rights and action from our former Senator, Bridge in Jackson Park Sunday, March 13, at now-President Barack Obama, to revert back to his previous position that marriage equality 10 a.m., as they have every March 13 for more is the right thing to offer to our community.” did lesbian activist Kelly Cassidy, who is direc- than 50 years to honor Darrow’s memory. Dar- Join the Impact Chicago’s Andrea Crain, who accompanied the activists, told Windy City tor of programs and development as part of the row died March 13, 1938, in Chicago and his Times that the activists “were all released around midnight. Their court date will be March state’s attorney’s executive staff. ashes were strewn at the lagoon. The focus 17.” Photo of the activists before entering the office reprinted with permission from Join Gray worked in the community outreach area this year is the death penalty, which Darrow the Impact Chicago along with department heads and liaisons for opposed. By March 13, Illinoisans will know the Asian, Latino, African-American and senior if Gov. Pat Quinn agrees with Darrow, because More than 100 Darrow devotees, including tims of police torture at Area 2 and 3 Police communities. Cook County State’s Attorney the state legislature has sent him a bill ban- attorneys, labor leaders, social justice advo- Headquarters, in their pending civil rights Anita Alvarez announced the specific layoffs the ning the practice in Illinois. cates, civil libertarians and First Amendment cases. week of Feb. 7. The March 13 event will feature a special buffs will attend the outdoor wreath-throwing Loyola Law Professor Anita Weinberg, daugh- Gray, who is 62, has been fighting cancer for tribute to the late Lila Weinberg, who was a ceremonies behind the Museum of Science and ter or Arthur and Lila Weinberg, will preside several years, so among her concerns is the cost member of the Darrow commemorative com- Industry before moving to the New Columbian over the indoor program. Tracy Baim, daugh- of insurance. mittee and one of the founders of the Bridge Room for the program. ter of the late Joy Darrow, will preside at the “I am in shock,” Gray said Feb. 11. “But this is ceremony in 1958. She and her husband, Ar- As president of the Illinois Academy of Crim- bridge. the time we live in, with budget troubles.” thur, authored a trilogy of books on Darrow. inology, Edward Mogul successfully proposed Darrow, characterized as the “attorney for As LGBT liaison, Gray spoke at more than 100 After the outdoor wreath-tossing, guests will that the Illinois Supreme Court adopt what is the damned,” who was born in 1857 in Farm- schools and other locations a year, addressing move inside to the Museum of Science and In- now the standard of law: “That it is the duty dale, Ohio, practiced in Chicago and repre- hate-crimes, bullying, LGBT issues, anti-violence dustry’s New Columbia Room for a dual tribute of the prosecutor to seek justice, not merely sented the underdog and vigorously opposed work, gangs, drugs and more. She was a big part to Darrow and his work on capital punishment. to convict.” Mogul is a federal trial attorney capital punishment. None of his many clients of a project to create a hate-crimes video that is As Darrow said during a 1924 debate: “[W]hy concentrating in the area of criminal law, and was sentenced to death. used now in schools. am I opposed to capital punishment? It is too a professor of humanities in the City Colleges Darrow’s death on March 13, 1938 was me- “This is a loss for our community, to not horrible a thing for a State to undertake.” of Chicago. morialized throughout the world. His ashes, have this voice in government,” Gray said. “But The speakers will be Edward Mogul and Joey Joey Mogul, partner at the People’s Law Of- and later the ashes of his wife Ruby and his change happens, and we see cuts everywhere. I Mogul, his niece, who are both longtime civil fice in Chicago and an adjunct law professor at son Paul, were scattered from the Darrow feel so blessed to have done this, to have had rights attorneys. The topic of Edward Mogul’s DePaul University College of Law, co-authored Bridge which was dedicated to his memory by this position to represent the community in a speech is “’Justice’ is Not a Legal Term, or the Queer (In)Justice: The Criminalization of LGBT the Chicago Park District in 1957. real way, it has been phenomenal. To go into the Gulf Between Justice and the Law.” Joey Mo- People. Mogul represents Darrell Cannon, Ron- For more details, see http://www.darrow- schools, it has been an incredible gift in my life. gul’s speech is, “Dreaming of Darrow and the ald Kitchen and Michael Tillman, alleged vic- bridge.org. These are the times we live in.” Fight for Human Rights in the 21st Century.”

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EBZT Place your order with us today and start saving now on your medication needs. Questions? Call or email 1-866-744-3835 or [email protected] Leading the effort in low-cost Rx drugs ensuring the highest quality and safety standards. WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 16, 2011 9 “does not intend to enforce” this ordinance at that they are simply fighting for equal rights. this time. “There’s a lot of oppression from religious es- GLN leads protest Also present during the protest were other tablishments that should support love; we just pro-LGBT organizations and LGBT allies such as want the right to stand up for our rights,” said PFLAG. After hearing about GLN’s protest, PFLAG protestor and Rockford College ENGRACE member at Holy Name members came to show their support. Brittany Salvador. “One of the aspects of PFLAG is that we sup- As with any protest, there are two sides. Amer- port our gay and lesbian family members. When- icans for Truth, a group dedicated to exposing BY TERRENCE CHAPPELL LGBT legislation in Springfield. ever there is injustice, there is injustice for all what it calls “the homosexual agenda,” held up The protest centered on three demands that of us. The tone of the Catholic Church is against signs thanking George for defending marriage. Rainbow flags and pro-gay legislation signs dec- included the opposition of anti-LGBT bigotry of gays and lesbians,” said PFLAG member Damian “I think its [GLN’s protest] is especially bra- orated the front of Holy Name Cathedral as Gay the Catholic hierarchy and instead support of Moshak. zen. There’s an uprising of the gay and lesbian Liberation Network (GLN) members and support- the many pro-equal rights Catholics organizing Spirit & Truth, a Catholic-based organization, community towards people of faith. There’s an ers protested for the freedom to marry for the for change within the denomination; demand showed up to the protest wearing light-blue T- inherent contradiction between religious rights LGBT community. of full equal marriage rights in Illinois; and shirts reading “Love is the answer.” The group, versus gay rights. GLN is always trying to block GLN, a group that focuses and rallies for LGBT demand that tax dollars no longer go to tax- made up of devout Catholics, wishes to mend out other messages and that is a form of bigot- equal rights, launched its “Freedom to Marry” exempt religious groups that refuse to commit relationships with the LGBT community. ry,” said Americans for Truth Founder/President protest Feb. 13 to target Catholic leaders’ oppo- to equal rights for LGBT people. According to “Unlike the messages that are often received, Peter LaBarbera. sition to LGBT equality. In particular, the protest GLN co-founder Andy Thayer, the protest is not true devout Catholics are about love. We are Thayer felt the energy of his protestors. He was in opposition to Cardinal Francis George and against the Catholic Church, but instead oppos- apologetic that they have had a negative expe- urged the LGBT community and its allies to not other Catholic leaders who have worked against ing the anti-gay leadership found in the Catholic rience with the Catholic Church. The freedom to be complacent and to constantly push the is- Church. marry issue is a legislative one, not a religious sue. “Their leadership is out of step with reality. issue,” said Spirit & Truth member Jennifer “Separate but equal institutions are never re- It’s important for anti-gay leaders to be called Nowakowski. ally equal,” he said. out for their bigotry. There’s also no secret that Still, GLN protestors and LGBT allies believe anti-gay leaders will clothe their bigotry with the cloth,” said GLN co-founder Andy Thayer. GLN’s demonstration actually served a dual purpose. In addition to fighting for LGBT rights, the protest was a stand for freedom to assem- bly and freedom of speech. Current city legisla- tion prohibits demonstrations in the public way within 150 feet and one half hour of a religious service in a place of worship. However, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Illinois deemed such legislation as a violation of the First Amendment. According to the ACLU, the ordinance that bans protesting near places of worship contains an exemption for labor picket- ing, creating speaker-based and content-based discrimination. ACLU asked the Chicago Police Department to alert it if officers were going to enforce the ordinance at the GLN’s demonstra- tion. In response on January 25, Chicago Corpo- Pro-equality advocates rally Sunday at Holy Name Cathedral. Photos courtesy of the Gay Libera- ration Counsel Mara Georges said that the city tion Network

Center on Halsted Oscar Party ® 2011 10 Feb. 16, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES Welcome to the Windy City Times 2011 Election Guide The local political landscape is in for a shake-up (or a shakedown, depending on one’s point of view). There is no one named Daley on the may- oral ballot for the first time in more than two decades—generating a free-for-all among the six candidates. In addition, the From left: Carol Moseley Braun, Miguel del Valle and Rahm Emanuel attended the LGBT mayoral forum. Photos by Hal Baim city council is getting a makeover of sorts as 11 aldermen are stepping down. In this second of two election issues, Windy City Times is running an article on Mayoral candidates speak at LGBT forum last week’s LGBT forum that featured three of the mayoral candidates (Rahm Emanuel, By Joseph Erbentraut see that plan through to completion,” he said. sure there is divisional distribution and access Carol Moseley Braun and Miguel del Valle) “I have no problem with gay and lesbian in- throughout the city of Chicago,” Braun said. answering questions. (Gery Chico was pres- In an unprecedented event organized by a co- dividuals, you should know veterans are over- “[We need to] break down the silos that are ent, but left the event early.) alition representing more than 30 Chicago LGBT represented in the homeless community. ... If I keeping our funding from going around to the There is also an item on a mayoral ap- groups, three of the six remaining candidates said something here that wasn’t also cognizant organizations that are presently providing im- pointments project modeled on the Presi- vying to succeed Mayor Richard M. Daley ap- of the fact that our Vietnam veterans and vet- portant services.” dential Appointments Project. peared Feb. 9 at a community forum held at the erans overall are represented over sample in the Closing her comments, Braun encouraged vot- The Windy City Times election guide Adler School of Professional Psychology. homeless population, I’d be taking care of one ers to look to her record on LGBT issues—in- charts are also available and include the The three mayoral candidates missing from the population at the expense of a population that cluding her opposition to both the Defense of candidates’ responses to 16 LGBT-related forum all attended a rescheduled Chicago De- has given a great deal to this country.” Marriage Act and “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” while a questions sent by the newspaper. We also fender candidate debate instead. Patricia Van Emanuel concluded his comments with one U.S. senator—as proof of the sort of advocacy list endorsements from other agencies, Pelt Watkins and William “Dock” Walls were no- last appeal to the audience centered on what he they could expect from a Mayor Braun. and more will be added as groups send in shows at the forum, while Gery Chico had asked sees as all Chicagoans’ common challenges. “Maybe when you come out of the perspec- their endorsements. Windy City Times does forum organizers if his scheduled speaking time “The only question—whether it’s on crime, tive of looking like me, you become doubly not endorse candidates for election. could be moved earlier in order for him to attend education or our economy—is whether we sensitive—I hope—to the travails and concerns Approximately 90 percent of the candi- both forums. Organizers argued such a conces- will face those issues with common purpose,” of others and this is something I’ve been con- dates in all the mayoral and aldermanic sion would have been unfair to the other candi- Emanuel said. “One thing I want to do as mayor cerned about, worked on and devoted my life to races were sent surveys. (Windy City Times dates. Chico, instead, greeted attendees as they is bring the city together as one. ... Obviously promoting in my career in public service,” she was not able to reach a few candidates.) arrived at the forum. [these issues] affect different people differently added. We have also included our questionnaire. Rahm Emanuel, Carol Moseley Braun and but there are common challenges that have to Finally, City Clerk of Chicago Miguel del Valle For AIDS Foundation of Chicago ques- Miguel del Valle each spoke before an audience be met with common purpose.” addressed concerns about public safety and ha- tion responses from mayoral candidates of roughly 200 (with hundreds more watching Former U.S. Senator Carol Moseley Braun spoke rassment in schools and from police with an em- see http://www.aidschicago.org/advo- online live) and answered a series of questions next, stating that she is “very proud of my re- phasis not only on the implementation of new, cacy/candidate_questionnaire.php. Also, a that addressed five core concerns the coalition cord on these issues.” more protective policies, but also on continued broad coalition of Chicago-area LGBT or- had identified: education, HIV/AIDS, youth On education, Braun said that she plans to in- professional development and close monitoring ganizations—including Equality Illinois— homelessness, transgender issues and public troduce an LGBT liaison team with Chicago Pub- to ensure policies translate into real change. has assessed LGBT issue positions of five safety. The questions were posed by forum mod- lic Schools as part of a zero-tolerance policy on Addressing HIV/AIDS prevention and educa- of the six candidates in areas including erator and Windy City Times Publisher/Executive bullying. She spoke of pursuing more housing tion, del Valle spoke of his experience protecting transgender rights and marriage equal- Editor Tracy Baim. options—both temporary and long-term—for proposed cuts to minority outreach HIV funding ity. The questionnaire is at http://www. Speaking first, Emanuel said he would pri- struggling LGBT youth and elders and also em- both as a State Senator and during his stint on eqil.org/nextmayor.html. oritize hiring new superintendents to both the phasized her hope to set a tone of inclusiveness the AIDS Foundation of Chicago’s board—a post Also, be sure to go online (at http:// city’s police department and public schools who across the city to help combat hate and bias Dr. Ron Sable asked him to take. www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com) to read share his concern for LGBT issues, including bul- crimes. Throughout his comments, del Valle charac- interviews with various candidates, in- lying in schools and accusations of police ha- In response to a question on HIV/AIDS fund- terized himself as the “people first” candidate cluding mayoral hopeful Patricia Watkins. rassment of LGBT Chicagoans. He also described ing, Braun emphasized that the city will need and emphasized that the strength of Chicago is There are also talks with aldermanic can- his support for HIV/AIDS funding—out of its to strengthen its private/public partnerships derived from its neighborhoods and community didates such as Michele Smith and Carmen public health concern—throughout the city, not in order to combat new HIV/AIDS infections, organizing. Olmetti (43rd Ward); Diane Shapiro (46th just on its North side. particularly in traditionally underserved African- “I look forward to the day when we have real Ward); Ameya Pawar and Matt Reichel Regarding public safety, President Obama’s for- American and Latino communities on the city’s (47th Ward); and Joe Moore and Brian mer chief of staff emphasized the role he played South and West sides. Turn to page 31 White (49th Ward). In addition, a few lo- in helping Democratic leadership in Washington “We can build on what we have but also make cal residents weigh in on their favorites in pass the Matthew Shepard Act federal hate- the mayoral contest. crimes legislation. The next step, he argued, is Lastly, do not forget to take Windy City ensuring “enforcement to the full force of the Times to the polling place when you vote. law, carried out at every level.” You are entitled to make the most informed And in response to a question regarding LGBT decision possible. youth homelessness, Emanuel offered general comments that veered unexpectedly toward a discussion of the overrepresentation of war vet- erans in the city’s homeless population. “The mayor laid out a good plan but how we’re going to make sure we have the resources to STAND UP FOR LOVE VOLUNTEER FOR AN HIV VACCINE STUDY

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chicago_windyCityTimes_5x2_silhouette.indd 1 1/26/2011 9:55:52 AM WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 16, 2011 11 “I’m confident we’ll see the appointments,” Shore said. “Having people in the positions Mayoral appointments where policies are set and the budget is made, having a seat at that table, is vital not only on behalf of our community, but because we will project launches ask the questions and advocate for not only the members of our community, but for oth- By Joseph Erbentraut new mayor in just over two decades, the op- ers throughout Chicago who are discriminated portunity to do exactly that is now. While ac- against.” Borrowing a page from the campaign that re- knowledging current Mayor Richard M. Daley Regarding the project, Rahm Emanuel cam- sulted in the appointment of a previously un- has done “very well” in appointing quite a few paign spokeswoman Caroline Weisser said, “If matched number of openly LGBT people to LGBT people to leadership positions within the he has the privilege of serving as mayor, Rahm President Obama’s administration, a coalition city, Shore said the interest is now in avoiding a would ensure that both the mayor’s staff and of Chicago’s leading LGBT community organiz- backslide from that achievement. Bernard Cherkasov. department leadership are reflective of the di- ers has launched a project it hopes will make a “We want to be ready and be able to assist versity in the city.” similar impact on the city’s newly elected mayor [the next mayor],” Shore added. “We want to strong message. We are certain this will be a Other candidates asked by Windy City Times to later this year. make the case that there are many worthy, tal- quite productive effort for our community.” comment on the Chicago Appointments Project Announced Feb. 9 at the mayoral candidate ented members of our community and that the Both Cherkasov and Shore indicated they had did not respond by the press deadline. In their forum held at the Adler School of Professional next mayor and the city as a whole would be received positive feedback from all the leading responses to the LGBT community coalition’s Psychology, the Chicago Appointments Project well-served to have them working in the new candidates who remain in the mayoral race. mayoral questionnaire, however, several other is a campaign intended to identify and recruit administration.” Shore added that the benefit of having openly candidates indicated they were also in favor of well-qualified, openly LGBT individuals from the Bernard Cherkasov, Equality Illinois chief ex- LGBT people in within city administration can including openly LGBT people in their adminis- community and advocate for their appointment ecutive officer, said the project, if successful, be crucial not only in terms of visibility but trative hiring. to the next mayor’s administration. The project would help de-sensationalize the fact the com- also in terms of decision-making and educating Interested applicants can visit http://www. is a joint effort between Equality Illinois, the munity is already present in vastly diverse areas co-workers. As the first open lesbian elected to eqil.org/appointments.html to learn more about Human Rights Campaign and the Gay & Lesbian of government and city life alike. countywide office, Shore is no stranger to this the project or submit their resumes. All infor- Leadership Institute. “We are already everywhere, in every profession fact. Prior to her election, the district did not mation submitted, according to organizers, will Debra Shore, the openly lesbian commissioner and industry but are often invisible,” Cherkasov offer domestic partner health benefits. When she be confidential and shared only with the project of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, said. “But we are one of the largest cities in asked why the benefits had not been offered, team. said the idea came after witnessing the success the world and this effort would communicate a Shore recalls being told, “Nobody asked.” of the Presidential Appointments Project, a cam- paign led by the Gay & Lesbian Leadership Insti- tute in collaboration with other groups. Beginning in mid-2008, Shore and other LGBT leaders throughout the country began to iden- ,EVV]MWEPSRKXMQIJVMIRH tify, recruit and gather the resumes of openly LGBT people who were well suited for appoint- ment to the Obama administration. ERHEHZSGEXIJSV “The Obama administration, I am told, was so impressed by the organization and the thor- oughness of the effort,” Shore said. “They said the LGBT community was better organized than XLI0+&85GSQQYRMX] any constituency group in this regard.” The next step, she said, seemed natural—to pilot the model at a state or municipal level. ˆ,IJSYKLXXSTEWW'MZMP9RMSRWPIKMWPEXMSR With Chicago on the verge of electing its first HRC, EI PAC ˆ,IJSYKLXXSEQIRH-PPMRSMW«,YQER6MKLXW endorse Emanuel %GXXSTVSLMFMXHMWGVMQMREXMSRMRLSYWMRK The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) an- IQTPS]QIRXPIRHMRKTYFPMGEGGSQQSHEXMSRW nounced its endorsement of Rahm Emanuel ERHSXLIVEVIEWFEWIHSRERMRHMZMHYEP«WWI\YEP for mayor of Chicago. According to a press SVMIRXEXMSR release, “the former White House Chief of Staff and member of Congress representing Chicago’s northwest side has a consistent re- ˆ,EVV]JSYKLXJSVI\TERHIHJYRHMRKJSV cord of support for LGBT Americans and was TVSKVEQWJSVMRHMZMHYEPWPMZMRK[MXL,-:%-(7 instrumental in enacting hospital visitation rights for same-sex couples nationwide.” “Rahm Emanuel has been a champion for equality throughout his career in public ser- vice,” said HRC President Joe Solmonese. “His ˆ)RHSVWIHF]%PH8SQ8YRRI]7XEXI6IT dedication to the LGBT community and his commitment to fairness for all Chicagoans (IF1IPP7XEXI6IT+VIK,EVVMW+E]'LMGEKS makes him a stellar choice for Mayor.” 1EKE^MRI “Confronted by my family’s story, it was Rahm Emanuel who saw an injustice and brought it to the President’s attention in ˆ,ILEWWYTTSVXIHQER]PSGEPSVKERM^EXMSRW order to make the lives of same-sex couples [MXLWXEXIJYRHIHKVERXWMRGPYHMRKXLI%-(7 better,” said Janice Langbehn, the catalyst *SYRHEXMSR84%20''43TIR,ERHERH&I,-: for the hospital visitation regulations who was shut out of the emergency room as her partner Lisa Pond was dying. ˆ%W%PHIVQER,EVV][MPPGSRXMRYIXSFIEWXVSRK The Equality Illinois PAC also endorsed EPP]XSXLI0+&85GSQQYRMX] Emanuel. “Rahm Emanuel has articulated a clear vi- sion for the City of Chicago, in which lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people are fully included and involved in every level of gover- nance,” said Art Johnston, chair of the Equal- ity Illinois PAC. :SXI*IFVYEV]JSV,EVV]3WXIVQER Jeremy Gottschalk, board president of Equality Illinois, said, “Rahm Emanuel has been a staunch champion of inclusion and (IQSGVEXJSV%PHIVQERXL;EVH equality for LGBT people.” The PAC also endorsed 46th Ward alderman- [[[LEVV]SWXIVQERSVK ic candidate Don Nowotny and city clerk can- didate Susana Mendoza. Nowotny is openly JEGIFSSOGSQRIMKLFSVWJSVLEVV]SWXIVQER gay. Paid for by Neighbors for Harry Osterman WCT IVI PPAC PLAN EI Election 2011 ALDERMAN - 10th WARD John A. Pope Y The Windy City Times election guide charts include the candidates’ responses to 16 LGBT-related questions sent Joseph A. Nasella by the newspaper. Windy City Times does not endorse candidates for election. Richard L. Martinez, Jr. Approximately 90 percent of the candidates in all the mayoral and aldermanic races were sent surveys. (Windy Jose R. Leon City Times was not able to reach a few candidates.) We have also included our questionnaire. NOTE: Regarding the mayoral candidates’ answers, neither Bill “Dock” Walls nor Patricia Watkins favors marriage equality. In addition, ALDERMAN - 11th WARD Walls is not pro-choice while Watkins has not employed any LGBT campaign staffers. James A. Balcer For AIDS Foundation of Chicago question responses from mayoral candidates see http://www.aidschicago.org/ John K. Kozlar advocacy/candidate_questionnaire.php. Also, a broad coalition of Chicago-area LGBT organizations has assessed Carl Segvich LGBT issue positions of candidates in areas including transgender rights and marriage equality; see http://www. eqil.org/nextmayor.html. ALDERMAN - 12th WARD WCT = Windy City Times questions, number listed is of the total questions correct for that race Jesus “Jesse” Iniguez IVI = Independent Voters of Illinois Independent Precinct Organization George Cardenas Y Y PPAC = Personal PAC Jose Guereca NOW = National Organization for Women Equality PAC (includes CNOW endorsements) Alberto Bocanegra, Jr. Jose “Chavelo” Rodriguez PLAN = Planned Parenthood Maria E. “Chula” Ortiz EI = Equality Illinois HRC = Human Rights Campaign ALDERMAN - 13th WARD Marty Quinn WCT IVI PPAC NOW PLAN EI HRC ALDERMAN - 14th WARD CHICAGO MAYOR Edward M. Burke Rahm Emanuel 16/16 Y Y Y Y ALDERMAN - 15th WARD Miguel Del Valle 16/16 Y Y Y Sammy Clifford Pack, Jr. Carol Moseley Braun 16/16 Y Y Y Sandra L. Mallory Gery J. Chico 16/16 Y Y Syron M. Smith Patricia Van Pelt Watkins 14/16 Toni L. Foulkes Y Y William Walls, III 14/16 Raymond A. Lopez Harold L. Bailey WCT IVI PPAC PLAN EI Felicia H. Simmons-Stovall CHICAGO CITY CLERK ALDERMAN - 16th WARD Patricia Horton JoAnn Thompson Y Y Susana A. Mendoza 15/16 Y Y Y Eric Hermosillo Eddie Johnson III Hal E. Baskin CHICAGO CITY TREASURER Javier Diaz Stephanie D. Neely 11/16 Y Y Tameka Gavin Jeffrey L. Lewis CHICAGO CITY COUNCIL Ronald Mitchell Jonathan T. Stamps ALDERMAN - 1st WARD ALDERMAN - 17th WARD Proco “Joe” Moreno 15/16 Y Y Y Latasha R. Thomas Ronald J. Baltierra Antoine Members Deborah Lopez David H. Moore Y ALDERMAN - 2nd WARD Michael F. Daniels Virgil S. Means Genita C. Robinson Twaundella Taylor Bob Fioretti 11/16 Y Y Y Ronald Carter Federico Sciammarella 12/16 Paulette Coleman James A. Bosco Melissa Callahan 11/16 ALDERMAN - 18th WARD Enrique G. Perez Lona Lane ALDERMAN - 3rd WARD Joseph C. Ziegler, Jr. Michael A. Davis Y Ebony Tillman Manny Roman Pat Dowell Y Chuks Onyezia Y Y ALDERMAN - 4th WARD ALDERMAN - 19th WARD William D. “Will” Burns Y Y Y Matthew J. O’Shea Brian Scott 11/16 Anne Schaible Norman H. Bolden 13/16 Raymond (Ray) Coronado James E. Williams George E. Newell George Rumsey 15/16 Phillip R. Sherlock Adam L. Miguest Lori S. Yokoyama ALDERMAN - 20th WARD ALDERMAN - 5th WARD George E. Davis Y Andre Smith Y Anne Marie Miles Willie B. Cochran Michele A. Tankersly Che “Rhymefest” Smith Y Y Leslie A. Hairston Y Y Y Sidney (Sid) Shelton Glenn Ross Carol Hightower Chalmers ALDERMAN - 21st WARD ALDERMAN - 6th WARD Sheldon L. Sherman Patricia A. Foster Roderick T. Sawyer Sylvia Y. Jones Freddrenna M. Lyle Y Y Howard B. Brookins, Jr. Brian E. Sleet Jerome Maddox Sekum Walker Cassandra Goodrum-Burton 16/16 ALDERMAN - 22nd WARD Richard A. Wooten Ricardo Muñoz Y Y ALDERMAN - 7th WARD Neftalie Gonzalez Lionell R. Martin ALDERMAN - 23rd WARD Gregory I. Mitchell Charles V. “Chuck” Maida Y Darcel A. Beavers Michael R. Zalewski Sidney H. Brooks Anna Goral Deborah Washington Sandi Jackson Y Y Y ALDERMAN - 24th WARD ALDERMAN - 8th WARD Wallace E. “Mickey” Johnson Wilbert E. Cook III Faheem Shabazz Chauncey L. Stroud Michelle A. Harris Y Y Sondra R. (Sam) Spellman Bertha F. Starks Melissa L. Williams James L. Daniels Valerie F. Leonard Y ALDERMAN - 9th WARD Vetress Boyce Michael D. Chandler Harold “Noonie” Ward Julius Anderson Anthony A. Beale Shavonda Fields Eddie M. Reed Jimmy Lee Lard Sandra J. Walters Regina D. Lewis Nicholas Jones WCT IVI PPAC PLAN EI WCT IVI PPAC PLAN EI John R. Videckis Jeffery D. Turner Edmund “Ed” J. Quartullo Martavius “Mark” Carter Mahmoud Bambouyani Larry G. Nelson Bart Goldberg Donielle C. Lawson Sheryl M. Morabito Frank M. Bass Sharon Denise Dixon 15/16 Y Y ALDERMAN - 39th WARD Margaret Laurino ALDERMAN - 25th WARD Mary K. Hunter Cuahutémoc Morfín Daniel “Danny” Solis 14/16 Y Y ALDERMAN - 40th WARD Ambrosio “Ambi” Medrano, Jr. 14/16 Y Patrick J. O’Connor ALDERMAN - 26th WARD ALDERMAN - 41st WARD Roberto Maldonado Y Y Thomas Patrick Murphey Devon Reid Daniel T. Lapinski James J. Schamne ALDERMAN - 27th WARD John Joseph Quinn Tom Courtney Mary O’Connor Walter Burnett, Jr. 10/16 Y Y Y Richard Gonzalez Gevonna Fassett Maurita E. Gavin George Banna ALDERMAN - 28th WARD Barabra Ateca Michael A. “Mike” Stinson Jim Mullen William Siegmund Brock Merck Jason C. Ervin Y Y Y Carmelita P. Earls ALDERMAN - 42nd WARD Brendan Reilly Y Y ALDERMAN - 29th WARD C. B. Johnson ALDERMAN - 43rd WARD Deborah L. Graham Y Y Y Jim Hinkamp Thomas E. Simmons Tim Egan 16/16 Mary Russell Gardner Rafael A. Vargas 16/16 Jill R. Bush Bita Buenrostro Oddis “O.J.” Johnson Charles E. Eastwood 15/16 Y Roman Morrow Michael “Mike” Jankovich Beverly D. Rogers Michele Smith 16/16 Y Y Carmen Olmetti ALDERMAN - 30th WARD Mitchell A. Newman Stella Nicpon Ariel E. Reboyras ALDERMAN - 44th WARD Doug Cannon 12/16 Thomas M. Tunney Y Y Chester R. Hornowski ALDERMAN - 45th WARD ALDERMAN - 31st WARD Don Blair Regner “Ray” Suarez John Garrido John Arena Y ALDERMAN - 32nd WARD Anna Klocek David M. Pavlik 15/16 Marina Yolanda Faz-Huppert Y Y Scott Waguespack 15/16 Y Y Y Bruno Bellissimo Brian Gorman Michael Fitzgerald Ward 15/16 Bryan P. Lynch ALDERMAN - 46th WARD ALDERMAN - 33rd WARD Befekadu T. Retta Richard F. Mell Mary Anne “Molly” Phelan 15/16 Michael Carroll 16/16 ALDERMAN - 34th WARD Don Nowotny 16/16 Y Y Burl L. McQueen Y James Cappleman 16/16 Henry Moses Diane Shapiro 15/16 Carrie M. Austin Y Y Andy W. Lam 13/16 Shirley J. White Emily Stewart 16/16 Michael E. Mayden Marc Kaplan Caitlin McIntyre ALDERMAN - 35th WARD Scott Baskin Miguel Sotomayor Y Rey Colón Y Y ALDERMAN - 47th WARD Nancy Schiavone Matt Reichel Ameya Pawar 13/16 ALDERMAN - 36th WARD Tom O’Donnell 14/16 Nicholas Sposato Tom Jacks John A. Rice Thomas J. Motzny ALDERMAN - 48th WARD Bruce Randazzo Harry Osterman 16/16 Y Y Y Jodi Biancalana Patrick McDonough Brian Murphy Steven Chereska Jose E. Arteaga 16/16 ALDERMAN - 37th WARD Philip R. Bernstein 12/16 Emma M. Mitts Y Y Maretta Brown-Miller ALDERMAN - 49th WARD Minerva V. Orozco Joe Moore 15/16 Y Y Y Steven E. Pleasant Brian White 15/16 Tommy O. Abina Shanika J. Finley 11/16 ALDERMAN - 50th WARD Bernard L. Stone 14/16 ALDERMAN - 38th WARD Michael Charles Moses Timothy M. Cullerton Debra L. Silverstein Y Y Tom Caravette Greg Brewer Y Carmen Hernandez Ahmed Khan

The following 16 questions appeared on the survey that Windy City Times sent out to candidates in the 2011 election. Surveys were sent out to all candidates for whom we had contact info; we estimate that surveys were sent to 90 percent of all candidates. The questions were the same for candidates in all races. NOTE: Regarding the mayoral candidates’ answers, neither Bill “Dock” Walls nor Patricia Watkins favors marriage equality. In addition, Walls is not pro-choice while Watkins has not employed any LGBT campaign staffers. This is why they each scored 14/16.

1) Do you have or would you install a written training for your staff members regarding LGBT- 9) Do you believe that LGBT individuals should much like the Harvey Milk School in New York policy in your office regarding sexual orientation related issues? become foster parents if they are qualified? City? and gender identity discrimination? 6) Do you favor same-sex marriage? 10) Do you believe that LGBT individuals have the 13) Would you advocate for mandatory anti-bully- 2) What is your position regarding funding for 7) If you were in the state legislature, would you right to adopt children if they are qualified? 11) ing policies/training in Chicago public schools? HIV/AIDS treatment and education? have voted in favor of the civil-unions bill that Would you keep committees around such as the 14) Are any members of your current staff— 3) Have you taken or would you take any steps to recently passed through the Illinois General As- City of Chicago Commission on Human Relations’ either campaign or general office personnel— further HIV/AIDS treatment and education pro- sembly? Advisory Council on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and openly LGBT? grams? If so, what are those measures? 8) Do you favor hate-crimes legislation that in- Transgender Issues and departments such as the 15) Please list any and all experience you have on 4) What are feelings regarding abortion? (i.e., creases penalties for crimes committed based on Office of LGBT Health? LGBT-related issues. Are you pro-choice or pro-life?) the sexual orientation or gender identity of the 12) What are your thoughts on a school that 16) What do you feel is the biggest problem fac- 5) Have you started or would you start sensitivity person attacked? would be designed specifically for LGBT students, ing the LGBT community today? 14 Feb. 16, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES that a number of somewhere between six to RN: Well, these are community organizations eight would be manageable from a time perspec- and community funders that have a vested inter- Talking with HBHC’s board- tive, in terms of getting people to meetings and est in ensuring the organization moves forward things like that. And we started talking about and I think they’re unbiased, serious leaders nominating chair Ron Nunziato the complexity of who might we want to serve, in their respective professions, to get this job and we all believed that one staff person should done and move forward and in a a coordinated BY YASMIN NAIR be represented and one board members should way. What I think we were looking for was: We be represented so that we have a flavor of the have a little bit of the HBHC staff, one person Howard Brown Health Center (HBHC) recently org as it is now. from the board, we have two people, Tom Klein announced the formation of a volunteer nomi- And then we started talking about community and myself, that are community leaders; myself, nating committee to identify its new board leaders, people that were well respected, well who has been on the organization’s board but members. As announced at the end of last year, rounded, had some drive toward wanting Howard many, many years ago. We were looking for a all old board members who were present at the Brown to move forward, and we started making well-rounded approach to representing the com- controversial period when the agency allegedly lists of names of people that we thought would munity. mismanaged its money and lost the MACS grant be beneficial to the process and then further WCT: There are to be 16-18 members on the to Northwestern will be gone by June of this looked at [if] there were people on the health- board. Is that standard? year (half have already stepped down). Karma care and funding side of the organization that RN: I think for the size of the organization Israelsen, who became a member of the board also might want to be involved and ensure that and for the budget it carries, 16-18 is an average after the period of mismanagement, was recent- the organization moves forward. And from that size. ly made board chair. we came up with our list. WCT: What about community ties? Would The volunteer nominating committee is to be WCT: Has Leslie Ramyk had a previous as- you take anyone who has had no overt kind headed by Ron Nunziato, a certified healthcare sociation with HBHC? of non-profit connection but is, for instance, compliance officer who also served on Howard RN: I believe that Ravenswood Health Center a patient? Brown’s board from 1985 to 1992. His tenure in- are funders of the organization. RN: We’re looking at key priorities and then cluded two years as president; he recently com- WCT: With regard to the committee, it does another set specific to experience and then an- pleted a term as the board chair of Vital Bridges seem that most of the people have had some other set key to priorities with regard to the after a decade of service. In addition to Nun- experience with the Howard Brown. [Note: At type of person’s time commitment, passion to ziato, the committee members are: Lisa Kuhns, first, Nunziato thought, though he was clear serve, etc. There’s also a criterion that we would Ron Nunziato. Photo by Hal Baim Ph.D., Howard Brown staff; Matt Neilson, cur- that we would need to confirm, that Alicia like people that utilize the services of HBHC to rent Howard Brown board member; Tom Klein, Ozier’s organization might be a funder of be represented on the board. M.D., physician and partner in Klein, Slotten and at Howard Brown? You were on the Howard HBHC, but that has turned out to not be the [Note: According to the U.S Department of French Medical Associates; Leslie Ramyk, execu- Brown board from 1985-1992 and you were case.] Health and Human Services, this last item is, tive director, Ravenswood Health Care Founda- board president at one point. Was there ever RN: I think it would be irresponsible for the in fact a requirement, not a choice: “One of the tion; and Alicia Ozier, executive director, Task- a process like this to bring board members board to appoint a committee of someone that cornerstones of the FQHC program is community force Prevention Services. on? What was the process like before? had no association with the organization. involvement in both the management and gov- Windy City Times spoke with Nunziato about RN; Well, I could tell you what the process WCT: Why is that? ernance of the health center. The FQHCs must be the formation of the committee and what it was was in the late ’80s. I can tell you of several RN: Because you’re asking people to select governed by a community-based Board of Direc- looking for in new board members. processes. In the beginning, when I was elected people for the board and overwhelming respon- tors, a majority of whom are users of the health Windy City Times: You’re the chair of this to the board, there was a membership of How- sibility especially given this time, and you have center’s services and who represent the health committee. What kind of range are you look- ard Brown. If you were a volunteer, if you were no association with this person to know what center’s service area in terms of demographic ing for within this board? a donor, if you were a staff member: you were their interests may or may not be. factors such as race, ethnicity and gender.” Ron Nunziato: What we have done is talk to actually considered a member and therefore you WCT: But what if you were to choose some- According to the Rural Assistance Center, “The staff and to the current board chair and, obvi- got to vote on a board. The board meeting that one, say, from another healthcare foundation board must include a majority (at least 51%) ously, [Executive Director] Jamal [Edwards] and, I was elected at was held in the auditorium of or organization that is invested in healthcare, of active, registered clients of the health center using the committee’s impressions of what the Illinois Masonic or Thorek Hospital, and it was they can still be invested in the well-being who are representative of the populations served organization needs to move forward, we’ve iden- crazy; it was a nightmare. Managing who could of a healthcare org without being funders [or by the center.”] tified some key strengths, kind of prioritizing vote, who couldn’t vote, a quorum of who could connected previously to HBHC]. I’m asking Next week, look for an interview with Jamal key strengths or experience that we’re looking vote, who couldn’t vote—and that’s why boards especially about funders becoming respon- Edwards about HBHC’s next steps, salary is- for. Specifically, we’re looking for people with have evolved to the current situation where a sible for new leaders. It seems a little bit sues and the new board. senior levels of healthcare operations, ability to board elects the new board. And I think this complicated. do strategic planning, strategic vision, people process that we’re doing now is very similar to with senior level of corporation and business what non-profit boards go through, with the ex- Floor, 3656 N. Halsted. (The event is free and experience and people that understand finance. ception of now the majority of the nominating ‘Chicago Takes Off’ open to the public.) Those are the key strengths that we’re looking committee are not people associated with the Among the honorees are Otis Mack, Sanford for, specific to an experience level. at Park West March 5 organization. And that I think was done by de- Gaylord, Nikki Patin, Anna Deshawn, Otis Rich- And then, added to that, I think it’s important Test Positive Aware Network’s (TPAN’s) an- sign. ardson and Nicole Scarver. that board members understand their role as a nual event “Chicago Takes Off” will take place In the beginning, when I was the president of Saturday, March 5, at the Park West, 322 W. E-mail [email protected]. governing body. Getting that piece with an un- the board in ’91-’92, we had a board nominat- derstanding of the fiduciary responsibility that Armitage, with shows at 7:30 p.m. and 10:30 ing committee, and there were generally three p.m. a board member has, I think, rounds out the members from the board on that committee. ‘Women of Concern’ process for the first set of priorities. Murray Hill, dubbed as “the hardest working And I would appoint two community members middle-aged man in show business,” will em- event Feb. 25 Now there are some other things we’re looking to that committee. I don’t know what Howard for. We want to make sure people have time to cee for the second consecutive year. Concern Worldwide will hold its annual Wom- Brown did after [that]. It seems to me that they The theme for the 2011 Chicago Takes Off is en of Concern Brigid Awards luncheon on Fri., do this, and people have a passion to serve; that moved away from having any community rela- people have an understanding of non-profits and modeled after the famed Lido cabaret in Paris. Feb. 25, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., at the Renaissance tions people in there but I really don’t know. “Mr. Showbiz” will share his return appear- Chicago Downtown Hotel, 1 W. Wacker. things like that. I didn’t stay involved in the board process or WCT: Could you clarify what you mean by ance with famed burlesque performers Michelle The 2011 Women of Concern Brigid Awards the nominating process, but I think it’s impor- L’Amour, Frenchie Kiss and Stage Door John- luncheon honors three Chicagoland women fiduciary responsibility—and these will be tant to know that, moving forward here in this unpaid roles on the board? nies. In addition to the 130 volunteer per- (Justice Anne Burke, Patricia Blunt Koldyke process, we have six people that are serving formers and dancers the show will also feature and Terrie McDermott) for their achievements. RN: Yes. The fiduciary responsibility of a board and only two of them, one staff person and one member is to ensure the funds of the organi- eclectic and magical stunts and acrobatics by A silent auction featuring national and local board member, are currently involved with How- The Midnight Circus; vocals by Black Betty’s celebrities’ new and gently used handbags and zations are used appropriately as they were in- ard Brown. You could say that I was involved, tended. There are some rules around—maybe lead singer, Molly Callinan; modern dance by wallets will take place. The funds raised from Tom Klein [who was, with his partner Ross Slot- Fabrice Camels of Joffrey Ballet Chicago; and this event will support Concern Worldwide’s guidance is a better word—of board members ten, a co-medical director of HBHC when Nun- that you have to accept and it’s a legal obliga- a special appearance by NBC Chicago’s LeeAnn maternal and child health programs in Haiti, ziato was on the board] was involved, but those Trotter and Alex Perez. Rwanda and Malawi. tion; the board has a legal obligation regarding are arm’s length involvements from a long time the management of the money and the property Tickets range from $50 to $300 and can be Call 312-431-8400 or visit http://www.con- ago and we’re really doing it as a sense of pur- purchased online at http://www.chicagotake- cernusa.org. of the organization. pose to ensure that the organization moves for- It’s important for people to understand that soff.org. Those who cannot attend but wish to ward, that the community at large sees that the support TPAN’s mission of providing HIV/AIDS because I don’t know if people really understand organization is taking this seriously, and that it Sykes, Eder at Human the responsibility of a board. I think people’s services and programs in Chicago can purchase wasn’t an internal process where there are four raffle tickets and make donations online. hearts are in the right place when they say they board members nominating and interviewing First gala Center on Halsted’s Human First gala is want to volunteer on a board and do whatever and selecting new board members. scheduled for Saturday, May 14, at 7:30 p.m. they need to help the organization move for- WCT: To the best of your knowledge, this is ‘Living Legends’ at the Harris Theatre for Music and Dance, 200 ward. But with that comes a serious responsibil- the first time that Howard Brown has had this E. Randolph. ity and a responsibility that I have taken really kind of process in place? gala Feb. 20 A Church 4 Me and the alumni of YPC (Frankie Out comedian/actress Wanda Sykes and seriously for the numbers of years that I was on RN: I believe so. Foundation) will present the annual “Living Broadway singer Linda Eder will perform. Howard Brown’s board, previous boards and then WCT: How was the committee chosen? Legends Black History Gala” Sunday, Feb. 20 at Tickets are $100-$500; see http://www.cen- the Vital Bridges board. RN: We talked about how many people we 11 a.m. at the Center on Halsted Theatre, 3rd teronhalsted.org or call 773-661-0794. WCT: Has this process been in place before would want on the committee. We all agreed WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 16, 2011 15 Lambda marks unions bill By Emmanuel garcia

With the recent passage of civil-unions legislation in Illinois, those who attended Lambda Legal’s 10th annual “Freedom to Marry” reception on Feb. 8 at the National Museum of Mexican Art had a lot to celebrate. The event, which took place for the fourth consecutive year at the museum, was buzzing with hun- dreds of supporters enjoying cocktails and vegetarian appetizers. “I think people feel a little bit closer to the goal. I certainly think a year ago at this time we did not think a year from now we would have had this legislative victory. It’s good to take another step up the ladder.” said, Jim Bennett, Midwest regional director at Lambda Legal. In years past, the event ,which is free and open to the general public, encouraged people to take action around the issue of marriage equality. Bennett explained that this year Lambda Legal partnered with Equality Illinois to create the Illinois Civil Unions Tracker, an online registration for gay couples who marry in and outside of Illinois. Jorge Valdivia, director of performing arts at the museum, enthusiastically introduced the facility’s president, who attended the event for the first time. This year the event included a singles mixer mes- sage board where attendees were given numbers to write messages to one another that were delivered by guys dressed as cupids. GayCo members Bennett and Kelly Beeman performed an educational comedy skit about what the civil-unions law does and does not do. They were both followed by singer Stephen Leonard’s acoustic performance of his original song Out Loud. The room, decorated with pink and red hearts, displayed a beautiful wedding cake that was later cut for dessert. Simon Aronoff, community educator at Lambda Legal, chose three couples from the crowd to go up on stage and toss bouquets. For the rest of the evening DJ Harry T had everybody shaking and moving the night away. For more information on Lambda Legal or any of their partner organi- zations visit http://www.LambdaLe- gal.org.

WINDY CITY TIMES 12th Annual THIRTY under 30

NOW ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS Windy City Times is seeking to recognize 30 more outstanding LGBT individuals (and allies) for its annual 30 Under 30 Awards.

Nominees should be 30 years or under as of June 30, 2011 and should have made some substantial contributions to the LGBT community, whether in the fields of entertainment, politics, health, activism, academics, or other areas.

Individuals, organizations, co-workers, etc. can nominate a person by e-mailing Andrew@ WindyCityMediaGroup.com or faxing to Andrew Davis’ attention to 773-871-7609. Self-nominations are welcome.

The nomination should be 100 words or fewer, and should state what achievements or contributions the nominee has made. Nominators should include their own names and contact information as well as the contact information and the age of the nominee.

Honorees will be notified in May and recognized at a free ceremony Wed., June 22, 5:30 p.m., at Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St.

The deadline to nominate individuals is Friday, April 22. Photo of 2010’s 30 Under honorees by Hal Baim. Photo of 2010’s

WINDY CITY TIMES’ THIRTY UNDER 30 IS CO-SPONSORED BY

Photos by Kat Fitzgerald (MysticImagesPhotography.com). More photos online at www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com 16 Feb. 16, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES Equality Illinois Gala and 20th Anniversary Celebrations By Yasmin Nair

Equality Illinois (EI) held its annual gala on Feb. 12 at the Hil- ton Chicago and Towers. An estimated 1,000 people attended the event, titled “Justice for All,” marking the 20th anniver- sary of the organization. The gala began with a silent auction, which showcased items ranging from small Chagall prints to gift certificates for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Several politicians, including mayoral candidates Rahm Emanuel and Gery Chico and all three openly gay candidates for 46th Ward alderman (James Capple- man, Don Nowotny and Emily Stewart) were in attendance. President Barack Obama sent a letter to Equality Illinois con- gratulating the organization on 20 years. Others in the “parade of politicians” at the gala included Gov. Pat Quinn, Attorney General Lisa Madigan, State Treasurer Dan Rutherford and State Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka. Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez were also there. Openly gay Rep. Greg Harris. EI CEO Bernard Cherkasov. politicians Rep. Greg Harris, Rep. Deborah Mell, Ald. Tom Tun- ney and Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Commissioner Debra Shore also attended. Mayoral candidate Carol Moseley Braun was conspicuously absent; according to a member of her team, she had refused to pay for a table, saying that candidates should not have to pay to interact with voters. Asked about the issue, Equality Illinois CEO Bernard Cherkasov said that as a 501(c)(3) organization, free seats would have counted as illegal gifts to a candidate. Mayoral candidate Miguel del Valle also skipped the event. U.S. Rep. Congressman Mike Quigley told Windy City Times, “This year is special because last year we had not repealed EI Board member Shannon Sullivan (center) accepts ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell ‘… and we had not passed civil unions EI Board Pres. Jeremy Gottschalk. Christina Kahrl. the IL Safe Schools Alliance Award. in Illinois. It’s rare that we have that much progress in one year.” Rep. Sara Feingenholtz. Similar thoughts were echoed by speakers at the dinnertime program that followed soon after, with several noting that Illinois’ passage of the civil unions bill in December was a hallmark for both the state and the country. Christina Kahrl, who welcomed attendees, spoke of a “shared vision of America, with full equality under for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgen- der people.” Quinn said the event was “an occasion to celebrate a great civil-rights victory.” Art Johnston, a co-founder of Equality Il- linois, listed the year’s progress, including the passage of the Illinois anti-bullying legislation, and in proposing a toast for “full equality and justice for all,” emphasized that while the community is “three giant steps towards a goal,” there was still work to be done. Joining him on stage for the toast were event chair Mark Cozzi and EI Board First Vice President Dalila Fridi. Mayoral candidate Gery Chico. Pepe Peña, Art Johnston and Mayor Daley. Johnston was the surprised recipient of a lifetime achieve- ment award that, according to Equality Illinois Board President Jeremy Gottschalk, had been kept secret for a year because Johnston would have balked at the idea. The award was pre- sented by Mayor Richard Daley, who spoke glowingly of John- ston having been “a consistent presence” who helped build a relationship between the community and the city. Daley also addressed the community, thanking it for “making me a better mayor and a better citizen.” Johnston appeared on stage to accept the award with his long-time business and life partner, Jose “Pepe” Pena, who was also called upon by Daley. Mayoral candidate Rahm Emmanuel, Cherkasov spoke of the occasion as one of celebration and of Rep. Mike Quigley and friend. Christin Baker and Rep. Deb Mell. Art Johnston, Rep. Greg Harris, Gov. Pat Quinn and friend. the need for ensuring that the civil unions bill’s benefits would indeed be made available to those who needed them. Absent from the evening was Rick Garcia, whose presence nevertheless was felt by those who knew of the organization’s history and his recent controversial ouster. Garcia, a co-found- er of Equality Illinois, was only mentioned once in passing—by his first name, by Quigley but by no one else. Attendance at the event seemed only minimally impacted by the controversy, and Cook Co. Board Pres. Toni just one protester was outside the gala. Gov. Pat Quinn and State’s Ald. Tom Tunney, Judy Rice and Preckwinkle and State Dawn Clark Netsch and Gov. Pat The Illinois Safe Schools Alliance received the Equality Il- Attorney Anita Alvarez. Commissioner Norma Reyes. Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka. Quinn. linois Freedom Award for its work on the state’s Safe Schools Act. Shannon Sullivan accepted the award on behalf of the group. State Rep. Greg Harris concluded the evening with a brief speech, saying that the civil-unions bill was “one step in Illi- nois but there were many more steps” still to come. Noting that Illinois had turned the tide after Proposition 8 in California, he cautioned that states like Indiana were now pushing marriage Gail Morse, Bernard Cherkasov amendments and that the right-wing, if not stopped, would and Lauren Verdich. “take away the rights we have fought so hard to achieve … and push us back into the shadows where they think we belong.” Saying that it would take a collective effort across the city and state to push back against such efforts, he urged the audience to continue its support. Ann Perkins, Jackie Kaplan and Rep. Greg Harris

Photos by Kat Fitzgerald (MysticImagesPhotography.com) and Hal Baim. More photos available online at www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com. WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 16, 2011 17

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Thursday, Feb. 17 7:30 p.m. Susan Goldberg, editor, and contributors Mary Bowers and Rob Gray And Baby Makes More

Saturday, Feb. 19 7:30 p.m. Sappho’s Salon: A Provocative Night of Lesbian Diversions

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Clark 773.281.0890 State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company (not in NJ) State Farm Indemnity Company (NJ) Home Offices: Bloomington, Illinois 18 Feb. 16, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES VIEWPOINTs WINDY CITY their strategies for survival in an oppressive so- in the mid-1980s as a way to challenge racist, TIMES ciety. sexist, and white feminists religious practices VOL. 26 No. 20, Feb. 16, 2011 rev. irene Walker defines a “womanist” as a Black femi- and discourses that excluded African-American The combined forces of Windy City Times, nist who continues the legacy of “outrageous, women’s participation and which ignored their founded Sept. 1985, and Outlines newspaper, monroe audacious, courageous, and willful, responsible, experiences in church and society. founded May 1987. in charge, serious’” African-American women as For womanist Christian ministers and seminar- PUBLISHER & EXECUTIVE EDITOR agents of social change for the wholeness and ians, Walker’s definition serves as a springboard Tracy Baim liberation of their entire people, and by exten- for their preaching style, liturgy and pastoral sion, the rest of humanity. A womanist can be a ministry. For womanist Christian academicians, ASSISTANT PUBLISHER Terri Klinsky lesbian, a heterosexual, a bisexual or a transgen- the definition shapes and frames their analyti- MANAGING EDITOR Andrew Davis ‘Womanist’ BUSINESS MANAGER Meghan Streit der woman. She celebrates and affirms African- cal and theoretical approaches. By using Afri- DIRECTOR OF NEW MEDIA Jean Albright American women’s culture and physical beauty. can-American women’s experiences of struggle ART DIRECTOR Kirk Williamson and saying A womanist “loves herself. Regardless.” and survival as their starting point of inquiry, SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGERS: Terri Klinsky, Amy ”Womanist” was coined as a term that is both these clergywomen and scholars examine the Matheny, Kirk Williamson, Dave Ouano PROMOTIONAL SUPPORT Cynthia Holmes who we are culture specific and encompasses a variety of simultaneous forces of race, class and gender NIGHTSPOTS MANAGING EDITOR Kirk Williamson ways in which women of the African Diaspora oppressions in African-American women’s lives. NATIONAL SALES Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863 Black History Month is that time of year when support each other and relate to the world. A “womanist” approach also celebrates African- SENIOR WRITERS Bob Roehr, Rex Wockner, Marie the achievements and courage of people of Af- Walker specifically devised the term in re- American women’s religious history, and vali- J. Kuda, David Byrne, Tony Peregrin, Lisa Keen, rican descent are acknowledged and celebrated. Yasmin Nair, Emmanuel Garcia sponse to literary historian Jean Humez’s (who dates their theological beliefs. THEATER EDITOR Scott C. Morgan However, for decades now, Black History Month resides here in Somerville, Mass.) introductory Although Walker’s definition includes lesbians CINEMA WRITER Richard Knight, Jr. has not once acknowledged or celebrated the statement in “Gifts of Power: The Writing of Re- as womanist, lesbian voices in the womanist BOOKS WRITER Yasmin Nair contributions of its LGBTQ communities. becca Jackson, Black Visionary, Shaker Eldress.” Christian discourse as well as their contributions ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT WRITERS Our omission from the annals of Black history Mary Shen Barnidge, Steve Warren, Lawrence Humez suggested that Rebecca Jackson and Re- to African-American women’s religious histories Ferber, Mel Ferrand, Jerry Nunn, would lead you to believe that the only shakers becca Perot, who were part of an African-Amer- have been suppressed. Proponents for the ex- Alicia Wilson, Jonathan Abarbanel and movers in the history of people of African ican Shaker settlement in Philadelphia in the clusion of lesbians in the discourse argue that COLUMNISTS/WRITERS: Yvonne Zipter, Susie Day, descent in the United States were and still are 1870s and lived with each other for more than a lesbian sexual orientation is antithetical to Jorjet Harper, Lee Lynch, Steve Starr, Lisa Keen, heterosexuals. And because of this heterosexist Charlsie Dewey, Michael Knipp, Mark Corece, Joe 30 years, would be labeled lesbians in today’s the tenets and survival of the Black Church and Erbentraut, Carrie Maxwell, Billy Masters, Kate bias, the sheroes and heroes of LGBTQ people of climate of acknowledging female relationships. Black family. As a result, many Christian lesbi- Sosin, Chuck Colbert, Micki Leventhal, Sarah Toce, African decent like Pat Parker, Audre Lorde, Essex Humez supported her speculations of the Jack- ans in the womanist Christian discourse have Mason Harrison, Dana Rudolph Hemphill, Joseph Beam and Bayard Rustin, to son-Perot relationship by pointing to the ho- responded either by engaging in the debate SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERS Kat Fitzgerald, Mel name a few, are most known and lauded within a Ferrand, Hal Baim, Steve Starr, Emmanuel Garcia, moerotic dreams the women had of each other. without disclosing their sexual identities or by Dave Ouano subculture of Black life. Walker disputed Humez’s right, as a white woman opting not to engage in it at all. Along with the pantheon of noted Black het- CIRCULATION from a different cultural context, to define the The secular use of “womanist” is by African- CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Jean Albright erosexual leaders who will lauded this month, intimacy between two African-American women. American women who have either left the Black DISTRIBUTION: Ashina, Allan, Dan, John, Renee, I want to personally celebrate one of my queer “Womanist” was coined as a term that applied Church because of its gender bias and homopho- Sue and Victor and crossover sheroes, renown writer and poet WEB HOSTING: LoveYourWebsite.com (lead pro- to a specific culture and that encompassed a va- bia, or who do not come from the Black Church grammer: Martie Marro) Alice Walker for giving Black women everywhere riety of ways in which African-American women religious experience. These women use the term on the globe a new name we all can embrace— support each other and relate to the world. to identify a culturally specific form of women- “womanist.” Copyright 2011 Lambda Publications Inc./Windy City Media Although the words “religion” and “Christian” centered politics and theory. They claim that the Group; All rights reserved. Reprint by permission only. Back While “sistah girl” is my favorite term to de- do not appear in Walker’s definition, there are term “feminist” is inappropriate because of its issues (if available) for $5 per issue (postage included). pict Black women, no word, however, captures Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, both religious and secular usages for the term history of identification with a predominantly and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and the totality of women of the African Diaspora in “womanist.” Because Walker emphasizes African- white movement that has often excluded and no responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials. popular culture today than Pulitzer Prize author American women’s love for the Spirit, African- alienated African-American women. In addition, All rights to letters, art and photographs sent to Windy Alice Walker’s term “womanist.” Alice Walker City Times will be treated as unconditionally assigned American Christian women have used ‘womanist” because the term, “feminist” has been used to for publication purposes and as such, subject to editing coined the term in her 1983 collection of prose to articulate their witness to and participation identify women as lesbians regardless of their and comment. The opinions expressed by the columnists, writings “In Search of Our Mothers’ Gardens.” cartoonists, letter writers, and commentators are their own in God’s power and presence in the world. “Wom- sexual orientation, “womanist “ provides a way and do not necessarily reflect the position ofWindy City The term “womanist” derives from African- anist” in the religious sense is often used by to affirm one’s identity without being associated Times. Publication of the name, photograph, or likeness of American women’s folk expression “You are a person or organization in articles or advertising in Windy African-American women who are Christian min- with lesbianism. Because of this, however, some City Times is not to be construed as any indication of the acting womanish.” The phrase illustrates little isters and seminarians, as well as by feminist women have challenged the term “womanist” sexual orientation of such person or organization. While African-American girls’ precociousness as they scholars in the field of religion. Womanist Chris- because of its homophobic implications. we encourage readers to support the advertisers who make attempt to comprehend and overcome the chal- this newspaper possible, Windy City Times cannot accept tian thought and practices began to flourish Hmm?! responsibility for advertising claims. lenges adult African-American women face in (773) 871-7610 FAX (773) 871-7609 e-mail: [email protected]

www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com LETTERS radio: WindyCityQueercast.com video: QueerTVNetwork.com Inactive BEHIV munity by providing a home, comprehensive ing to this act it would not impact faith-based WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP, services, and spiritual care. We, and other orga- adoption agencies or adoption procedures. 5315 N. Clark St. #192, Chicago, IL 60640 USA (MAILING ADDRESS ONLY) Dear Editor: nizations working in this field, cannot do this Is the act at odds with the state’s adoption I, along with the staff of Alexian Brothers Bo- without the on-going support of members of act on this matter? In 1995, a state appellate Windy City Times Deadline every Wednesday. naventure House, was saddened to hear the our community. As this economy hits individuals court affirmed that “nothing in the [Adoption] Nightspots Deadline Wednesday prior to street date. news of BEHIV’s closing. For 21 years, BEHIV has hard, it also hurts the organizations struggling Act suggests that sexual orientation is a relevant OUT! Resource Guide ONLINE to provide vital services for their communities. consideration, and lesbians and gay men are per- www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com served our community through its holistic ap- www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com proach to those affected by HIV/AIDS. Whether BEHIV has been the latest casualty of this im- mitted to adopt in Illinois.” See Petition of K.M., www.WindyCityQueercast.com through housing and case management, art mensely difficult time. 653 N.E.2d 888 (Ill. App. Ct. 1995). www.QueerTVNetwork.com therapy or HIV testing, BEHIV has been a strong This is a reminder to us all of the importance There is no legal reason why gays and lesbians partner in providing expertise and care in the of working together to sustain vital community should be denied the right to adopt children ac- “Windy City Media Group generated area of HIV/AIDS. We would like to express our services—especially in tough times. Cash con- cording to the appellate court ruling. The law enormous interest among their readers gratitude to the staff of BEHIV for their diligence tributions are great, but in-kind donations and appears to be very specific on this matter; deny- in this year’s LGBT Consumer Index and perseverance in this critical, but often over- volunteering one’s time and talents are equally ing adoption based on sexual orientation should Survey. Out of approximately 100 looked area for so many years. needed. As we at Bonaventure House continue have no place in any adoption policy. print and online media partners who The need for housing and services for men and to work alongside other AIDS service providers Does the archdiocese of Chicago (Catholic participated in the survey, Windy women living with HIV/AIDS in Chicago is great. like BEHIV, we hope that more and more of our Charities Adoption Services) have the right to City was the best performing regional Current estimates indicate that roughly 15,000 neighbors, friends, partners, and clients will ban adoptions to gay and lesbian parents be- media in the U.S. Only survey partners people living with HIV/AIDS in Chicago are in come together to see all of us through these cause it disapproves of them becoming parents with a nationwide footprint were able to generate a greater number of need of housing yet we have only about 1,300 daunting days and into a brighter future. solely based on their sexual orientation? No in- responses.” ­­—David Marshall, Research units of AIDS housing available. Housing is par- Michelle Wetzel stitution, no matter what its guiding principles, Director, Community Marketing, Inc. ticularly important because it provides stability CEO, Alexian Brothers Bonaventure House should be allowed to discriminate with public and a safe, healthy environment which increases money. I would hope the civil-unions bill will be individuals’ ability to maintain necessary medi- Adoption argument used support existing law on gay adoption and cal care. Because of this, we must continue to not give license to discrimination. provide supportive services and housing for Dear Editor: It is sad that the church apparently believes those living with HIV/AIDS in our communities. Nationally, about 80,000 foster children go its misguided effort to ostracize gays is more As a provider of AIDS supportive housing and without being adopted every year. Thousands important than its mission to serve the best in- services, Bonaventure House’s vision is to trans- of childless same-sex couples want to adopt. terest of the child. form the lives of people struggling with HIV/ Recently the state of Illinois passed the civil- Joe Murray, AIDS within a compassionate, supportive com- unions act; it will become law June 1. Accord- Rainbow Sash Movement WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 16, 2011 19 GOINGS-ON WINDY CITY TIMES’ ENTERTAINMENT SECTION

Photo by Andrew Davis ALONG CAME A SPYDER The Audi R8 Spyder (above) is just one of the sweet rides at the Chicago Auto Show. See details and photos on page 28. COMEDY MUSIC MOVIES Love and Kate. ‘Fringe’ benefits. Gregg room. Page 29. Page 27. Page 23.

Photo by David Rodgers Photo by Jerry Nunn Photo by Marianne Williams

SCOTTISH Set at a state-sanctioned brothel in Nevada, PLAY SCOTT Bordello offers playwright Lathrop the chance to question what drives women to prostitution sans the illegal criminal aspect if it were set else- Sex, where in the United States. “It’s often identified as a victim-less crime,” racism and said Kyra Morris a self-identified bisexual actress Bordello. who plays the part of Godiva, a married ex-mil- Photo by itary woman who falls into this line of work in homophobia Jeff Pines order to help pay bills in Bordello. BY SCOTT C. MORGAN “But the playwright is also examining whether or not it does damage to a women, or if they’re Playwright Thomas Bradshaw knows his dark there because they’re damaged,” said Morris, comedy Mary, now in the midst of its world pre- who has learned quite a lot about legalized miere run at the Goodman Theatre, is bound to prostitution as due course from appearing in prompt controversy. And that’s largely due to the Bordello. “And what if they weren’t damaged, fact that Bradshaw strategically pushes the but- what would they be doing and what have they tons of racism and homophobia in unexpected done and what would they be capable of?” patterns in Mary. Indeed, another major issue that Bradshaw In tackling such contentious issues of racism Morris pointed out that many of the women in “The play is based upon a true story,” said explores in Mary is the frequently homophobic and homophobia in Mary, Bradshaw did find it Bordello lack education and do the work as an Bradshaw during a telephone interview. Brad- views held by people in the African-American somewhat amusing as he noticed an unspoken “easy” way to pay bills. shaw has a gay opera singer friend who recount- community. In the play, the church-going Mary sense of relief from some administrative theatri- “The question is, ‘Am I harming myself, or am ed his own horror at visiting his boyfriend’s fam- and her husband, Elroy, take it upon themselves cal workers when they first realized that the play I in control?’” said Morris, who also identifies ily in Southern Maryland back in 1983, where to try and teach the gay couple a Biblical les- was written by an African American at readings herself as “sex positive.” “A lot of the contro- the parents casually referred to their African- son. for the play. But Bradshaw wants audiences to versy surrounding this type of employment is American maid as “nigger Mary.” “The play clearly shows how different groups focus on what he has written instead finding out the taboo of sex to begin with, and especially “Mary had been in the boyfriend’s family for can seize the Bible to their own ends,” Bradshaw all the personal particulars of his life. sex with multiple partners.” hundreds of years,” Bradshaw said. “Mary’s fam- said, noting how one minority group isn’t neces- “I’m much more interested in sparking a dia- Speaking of multiple partners, Lathrop in Bor- ily officially became domestic servants after sarily going to sympathize with another. “That logue and letting the audience really have to dello doesn’t shy away from the fact that many slavery ended.” always seems to be the state of things to some think about what they just saw and sifting women sex workers often perform together to This decidedly non-politically correct story extent that the very groups who are oppressed through the material themselves and coming to fulfill heterosexual male fantasies about lesbi- proved to be the starting point for Bradshaw’s then turn around and oppress another group.” their own conclusions instead of telling them ans. Mary, which follows the gay couple Jonathan and In just reading Bradshaw’s play, it’s easy to what to think,” Bradshaw said. “What’s being “A lot of clients expect prostitutes to have sex David and their dealings with David’s Southern see a director take an exaggerated approach to shown on stage, some of it is funny, but these with each other and if you’re one of the girls, family starting in 1983. But Bradshaw throws the characters and their often fact-based dia- are realities of our world and it’s not a joke.” a lot of times that’s a bump up in pay,” Morris in a few dramatic and character-defining curves logue. But Bradshaw clearly instructs in his play Mary continues until March 6 in the Owen said. “The issues of lesbianism or what consti- into the mix. notes for directors not to do that. Theatre space of the Goodman Theatre, 170 N. tutes a lesbian does bring up the subject of how “When stories like this are told, it’s often too “It’s very important that everything be played Dearborn. Tickets are $10-$42; call 312-443- does sex interfere with or construct my identity easy to say here are the good guys and here are absolutely straight,” Bradshaw said, noting how 3800 or visit http://www.goodmantheatre. and does it have to do either of those things.” the bad guys,” Bradshaw said. “People watch- it would be very easy to take an approach like org. Bordello continues until March 6 at Chicago ing the play are going to assume that Mary is out playwright Christopher Durang’s satirical Dramatists, 1105 W. Chicago. Tickets are $15- the character they should identify with or should works. “That takes away from the power of the Legalized prostitution $32. Call 312-633-0630 or visit http://www. be rooting for. I wanted to make the play more work and the power of the ideas being presented Another world-premiere drama deliberately chicagodramatists.org. (Also, see the review complicated than that because life is much more because it lets the audience off the hook im- courting controversy in the Windy City is Aline on page 20.) complicated than the clear morality that is often mediately because they think, ‘this is funny, we Lathrop’s Bordello at Chicago Dramatists (see re- presented onstage and in movies.” don’t have to take this seriously.’” view in this issue). 20 Feb. 16, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES THEATER REVIEW Trouble In Mind Playwright: Alice Childress At: The Artistic Home, 3914 N. Clark Phone: 866-811-4111; $28 Runs through: March 20

BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE

It was once said of statesman Ross Perot, after his embarrassing “you people” speech to the NAACP in 1992, that he wasn’t really racist, but “just didn’t know any better.” It was an accurate assessment, acknowledging as it did, the obsta- cles to self-defined autonomy presented by, not only that goal’s avowed opponents, but its often misguided supporters. Al Manners is a Hollywood director returning Bordello. Photo by Jeff Pines to Broadway, his proposed project a “trunk” THEATER REVIEW her worthless man? Is one of the “girls” re- drama set in the uneasy years following the ally pregnant, and how, with condoms a house American civil war, when emancipated slaves Bordello regulation, did she get that way? attempting to exercise their newly-granted vot- Playwright: Aline Lathrop It’s not all the same old melodrama, however, ing rights risked fearful retribution at the hands At: Chicago Dramatists, 1105 W. Chicago or even the same new melodrama (did I men- of hostile vigilantes. He also looks forward to Phone: 312-633-0630; $32 tion the adrenaline-snorting Iraqi war veteran experimenting with the new “method” acting Runs through: March 6 or the Asian med-school dropout?). Amid the techniques, where performers’ personal experi- predictable women-in-bondage dynamics are ences inform the characters they portray. The BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE many interesting facts about the Harlot’s Pro- younger, classroom-trained cast members take fession and those practicing it today under ar- readily to sharing with their fellow artists, but For most people, the world of prostitution guably the most favorable conditions offered the seasoned troupers fear putting their jobs in is a fantasy—glamorous, lurid, romantic or by our American society: the prizes awarded by jeopardy by voicing opinions—until a veteran of titillating—but their own individual fantasy, the boss for the highest monthly earnings, for stage and screen invokes her analytic freedom nevertheless, to shape according to their pri- example. Or the top-price diva whose profits to challenge the boss, himself, thereby eliciting vate preconceptions and desires. Playwright provide homes for her siblings. And then there’s a confession eluding even its confessor’s raised Aline Lathrop arrived at her topic from the the no-nonsense achiever drawing up plans for consciousness. standpoint of a sexual victim and, despite the an employee-owned sex-for-hire start-up (such We in 2011 are quick to identify smug paternal- psychological distance her extensive research as now exist in parts of California). ism passing as humanitarian empathy, especially was supposed to facilitate, the initial prejudice The sturdy cast assembled by director Meghan as professed in a play-within-the-play mawkish engendered by this one-time encounter cannot Beals McCarthy lend their by-the-numbers dia- enough to make The Octoroon look like Dutch- help but permeate her conclusions generally. logue a welcome freshness and humor to ren- man. But while the fictional producer-director Kelly Owens and Armand Fields in Trouble In Our milieu purports to be one of the licensed der the play a pleasant, if uninspiring, two of Alice Childress’ critical commentary emerges Mind. Photo by Tim Knight brothels permitted under Nevada law, but re- hours. And no theater ever lost money on the as an unwitting proponent of the inequities he strictions on its off-site privileges (a legal promise of nubile chicks dressed in scanty un- sincerely believes that he deplores, the Artistic measure designed to reduce fraternization with dies. But so rigidly does Lathrop adhere to her Home’s decision to revive—during Black History Austin’s steely dowager and John Mossman’s the local citizenry) quickly reconfigure the mission of presenting the negative aspects of Month, of course—the controversy of nearly a clueless swaggerer dominate the action, but dramatic action into that of an old-fashioned her play’s universe that what could have been half-century past addresses unspoken prejudices it’s Cola Needham’s second-act account of Jim Prison Play. We meet the personalities typical an enlightening study of an alternative culture still prevalent in our society today. Crow atrocities that holds us as spellbound with of this genre, embroiled in the usual petty in- ultimately emerges as simplistic watch-and- The faux fly-lines at the side of the Artistic horror as it did audiences in 1954, when Chil- trigues: who put the razor blades in the porn- ward propaganda. Is the author afraid that we Home’s storefront stage and the leading ladies’ dress’ refusal to give her script a happier ending star’s soap? Who rescued the youngest soror- will embark on a career in the skin trade at the Dior wardrobes locate us immediately in a dra- curtailed its chance at a Tony-eligible Broadway ity sister after she slit her wrists for love of slightest hint of encouragement? matic universe where lunching on pizza and production. chianti was an adventure in exotic cuisine. And THEATER REVIEW appropriate actors assume the roles previously the well-chosen ensemble—none of whom ap- played by others. For example, when Sam and pear old enough to recall the early days of the CRITICS’ PICKS The Big Meal Nicole hit their 40s, actors Philip Earl Johnson civil-rights movement—evoke the climate of Playwright: Dan LeFranc and Lia Mortensen take over from Goetten and their period with uncaricatured conviction (as- As You Like It, Chicago Shakespeare The- At: American Theater Company, Leopold. And when Sam and Nicole hit their 60s, sisted in no small part by director Vaun Monroe’s ater, through March 6. Director Gary Grif- 1909 W. Byron actors Will Zahnr and Peggy Roeder take on the psychologically revealing choreography). Velma fin’s concept is no concept: He guides its Phone: 773-409-4125; $35-$50 characters after having previously played Sam’s comedy and romance with an invisible but Runs through: March 6 difficult parents Robert and Alice. steady hand, thereby allowing the play to Director Dextar Bullard confidently has his ‘‘AN EROTIC BLAST OF SINFUL sing for itself, clear to all comprehensions. BY SCOTT C. MORGAN finger on the pulse of LeFranc’s play, skillfully FLESH, FUN AND FANTASY JA putting his acting company and design team American Theater Company definitely has a THAT YOU DON’T WANT TO STOP.” The Beauty Queen of Leenane, Shat- through their paces to maximum effect. PETER TRAVERS, ROLLING STONE tered Globe Theatre at Athenaeum Theatre, winner on its hands with Dan LeFranc’s world Despite the brevity of the actors’ dialogue, through Feb. 27. A revitalized Shattered premiere play The Big Meal. Not only is this Bullard coaxes out great emotional performances Globe Theatre picks up the pieces of this al- fast-paced multi-generational drama a thought- from his company that often fill in for LeFranc’s most defunct company to produce a strong provoking and emotionally moving experience deliberately chosen blanks. Bullard has also and dramatically satisfying staging of Mar- about the fleeting nature of life, it has already found two great child actors with Noah Schwartz tin McDonagh’s bleak and violent Irish dra- secured a New York berth off-Broadway later this and Emily Leahy, who both sound spontaneous ma. SCM year as part of Playwrights Horizons’ upcoming and annoyingly accurate as the play’s various Carmilla, WildClaw Theatre at the Store- season. whiny and pushy kids. front, through Feb. 20. Forget Bram Stoker Initially The Big Meal plays like a short-atten- Although the outfits are everyday wear, cos- and his masculine posturing—the vam- tion-span romantic comedy with fragmentary tume designer Tiff Bullard finds ways to accent pire legend as we know it began with its dialogue sounding like it was keyed in on a certain characters so you can follow their pro- women, and WildClaw delves its romanticist Blackberry. We get to see drama’s main couple gression through a variety of performers. For roots with this erotic no-giggles prototype of Sam and Nicole (a.k.a. Nikki) in their 20s instance, a pink scarf worn by Sam and Nicole’s starring cult divas-in-training Michaela Pet- speed through their first few months of their re- daughter Maddie helps identify the character as ro and Brittany Burch. MSB lationship in very amusing scenes often lasting she ages through three different actresses (the Eclipsed, Northlight Theatre, through less than a minute (a great credit to the actors scarf’s color also has symbolic resonance when Feb. 20. Danai Gurira’s drama set amid the Andrew Goetten and Lindsay Leopold). Maddie suffers an untimely death). recent Liberian Civil War is a disturbing, But then LeFranc expands the parameters and LeFranc’s The Big Meal certainly hits all the yet compelling, examination of the choices scope of the play by bringing in other family right dramatic buttons, and will no doubt prompt that women have to make in order to sur- members who come into and then exit from Sam a plethora of chuckles for anyone who has en- vive amid a soul-crushing conflict. SCM and Nicole’s lives. And it’s all speedily played dured an extended family dinner outing. But out in scenes entirely set in a series of changing more importantly, LeFranc has crafted a modern- www.sundanceselects.com —By Abarbanel, Barnidge suburban restaurants. day spin on Thornton Wilder’s 1938 drama Our TH LeFranc also hits on a clever (albeit poten- OPENS FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 18 and Morgan Town by poignantly showing how quickly life can MUSIC BOX THEATRE tially confusing) device to show the play’s char- pass people by. 3733 N. SOUTHPORT AVE. (773) 871-6604 CHICAGO acters aging through life by having other age-

WINDY CITY .12pg AD RUNS WED 2/16 WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 16, 2011 21

A MAGICAL THEATRICAL EVENT Starship. Photo by Chris Dzombak BEGINS APRIL 29 THEATER REVIEW quartered in Chicago after being created a scant two years ago by University of Michigan stu- J M BARRIE’S Starship dents) may want to fry bigger fish and attempt Playwright: Matt Lang, Nick Lang, Brian more mature work, and to do that successfully Holden, Joseph Walker, Darren Criss they’ll need discipline Starship doesn’t display. At: StarKid Productions at the There’s plenty of talent onstage and some sharp Hoover-Leppen Theatre, 3656 N. Halsted writing, but the effort is inconsistent, some- Tickets: SOLD OUT! times childish and loooooooong. Runs through: Feb. 23 Starship borrows freely from Alien, Avatar, Star Trek and Avenue Q in a story about human BY JONATHAN ABARBANEL Starship Rangers on a planet inhabited by gi- ant, sentient insects. One insect, actually called At its best moments, Starship is reminiscent of Bug, has his brain transported into a human the legendary Warp!, the world’s first science- body and proceeds to fall in love, experience hu- fiction epic in serial form, a seminal hit (along man emotions (as does a human android named with Grease) of Chicago’s young, early 1970s Mega-Girl), and intervene in affairs to the final off-Loop theater movement. At those moments betterment of both humanity and bugdom. A Starship displays inspired silliness, clever stag- half-dozen or eight songs are interspersed, but ing on a shoestring and bold parody of the he- not nearly enough to make it a real musical, and roic space-opera formula. the music itself is ordinary (albeit pleasant) soft Alas, those moments are few and far apart in rock. a repetitive extravaganza that runs a stupefy- All the bugs are puppets, and the puppet work ing three-and-a-half hours (with intermission). is worthy and notable. However, various video C’mon, StarKid Productions, get real and cut, cut and special effects are lame and too often de- and cut some more! There’s potential here for a scribed rather than seen. Several performers are wonderful 100-minute or two-hour show if they gifted in the show’s unsubtle, oversized style do the hard work. (especially Meredith Stephens’s Mega-Girl and Now, the reviews won’t matter one iota of space Dylan Saunders in two juicy roles), while others dust because StarKid Productions is an Internet are weak as actors and singers. phenomenon that’s already drawn more than 50 Starship has humor, high spirits and an envi- million YouTube hits for previous theatrical en- able niche audience but it’s inconsistent, far too deavors. Starship is completely sold-out for its long, musically uninspired and lacking technical brief two-week run, and its audience is solidly pizzazz. The StarKid kids needs to be ruthless teen-aged, wildly enthusiastic and totally lack- with themselves if they want to take the Next ing in critical faculties. They squeal, cheer, sigh Big Leap, and why bother coming to Chicago if and applaud every moment of this long slog, they don’t? which will be recorded in HD video and uploaded to YouTube one 10-minute segment at a time. But one day StarKid Productions (now head- SPOTLIGHT

Why revive choreographer John Cranko’s previously seen ballet version of The Tam- ing of the Shrew when you can present the Chicago premiere of Ronald Hynd 1975 ballet adaptation of Franz Lehar’s beloved operetta The Merry Widow? That’s the decision Jof- “A VISUALLY DAZZLING, frey Ballet artistic director Ashley C. Wheater made last year, and fans of big story ballets LONDON-BORN PRODUCTION are the winners in the repertory exchange. The Merry Widow plays 7:30 p.m. Feb. 16- OF J M BARRIE’S PETER PAN.” 24 and Fridays and Saturdays with 2 p.m. matinees on Saturdays and Sundays through –WALL STREET JOURNAL Feb. 27. Tickets are $24-$145; call 800-982- 2787 or visit http://www.joffrey.org. Photo of Count Danilo (Miguel Angel Blanco) and 888-PPANTIX U wealthy widow Hannah Glawari (Victoria Ja- Chicago Tribune Freedom Center North iani) by Hebert Migdoll Groups 15+: 312-977-1710 U www.peterpantheshow.com 22 Feb. 16, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES throbs to be beautiful and angst-ridden for mov- ie audiences. Now the gloomy ones in question must have fantastical powers as compensation KNIGHT for their endless ennui. So they’re secret super- heroes, vampires, werewolves, shapeshifters and AT mythical gods/goddesses or, in the case of John THE Smith (played by mega blond hottie Alex Pet- tyfer), aliens. MOVIES John is a conflicted teenage orphan from an- other world, running from a passel of leather- clad, tattooed testosterone aliens with sawed- off teeth (and shark snouts) who want to kill him. “We are the last of our kind,” he’s told By by his protector, pseudo-uncle Henri (Timothy Richard Olyphant), who has moved them from place to Knight, Jr. place for years to avoid detection (kinda like Cher constantly moving Winona Ryder and Chris- tina Ricci in Mermaids). Though John revels in regular teen experiences like attending high Kaboom; I Am school, making friends with the science nerd and dating pretty, free-spirited Sarah (Glee’s Dianna Number Four; Thomas Dekker in Kaboom. Photo by Marianne Williams Agron), those murderous thugs are hot on his trail and time is running out. For now, destiny film notes will trump true love—at least for this and, if the and to form. Using his own college experiences ners and tries out a bit of self-fellatio in front box office proves durable, a batch of sequels. “Keep young and beautiful. It’s your duty to be as a film major, Araki crafts a sex comedy that of Smith without embarrassment (in one of the Familiar, none-too-taxing and featuring a like- beautiful,” Annie Lennox trilled in her delightful spins off into deeper and deeper territory that’s film’s most hilarious scenes). “I’m undeclared,” able, fetching cast expertly hitting their marks, remake of the flapper-era standard “Keep Young delightfully dark, playful and, naturally, queer as Smith answers an unfazed Thor to his query director D.J. Caruso (Disturbia, Eagle Eye) makes and Beautiful” on her first solo album. And that hell. about whether he’s gay or not. the wait for those inevitable sequels something tongue-in-cheek maxim can certainly be lobbed Smith (Thomas Dekker)—Araki’s 18-year-old But then nothing sexually fazes any of the rather nice to anticipate. at the comely young actors prominently dis- version of his younger self, with his permanent pretty young things inhabiting Smith’s free- played in two disparate yet equally pleasurable five o’clock shadow and deathly pallor—is a film wheeling world—certainly not Stella (Haley Film notes: youth obsessed movies opening this week. (Both studies major who muses, “Is kind of like devot- Bennett), Smith’s best gal pal who’s an acid- —You only have two more days to catch The also offer plenty of overt and covert voyeuristic ing your life to an animal that’s on the verge tongued dyke and a junior-league Eve Arden who Woodmans, C. Scott Willis’ fascinating, ellipti- pleasures for queer audiences.) of extinction” at a fictional southern California adroitly tosses one zinger after another. The gor- cal documentary portrait of the art-driven family Kaboom is the first of these. It marks the college. But Smith never picks up a camera or geous Lorelei (Rosane Mesquida), unfortunately, of the late Francesa Woodman, whose stunningly return to cinemas for out writer-director Gregg goes to class; instead, he’s focused on getting doesn’t get Stella’s dry humor and doesn’t take evocative black-and-white self-portraits (mostly Araki after a three-year hiatus. For Araki, who laid as often as possible. In particular, he’s fix- the hint when Stella wants to break up (some- nudes), influenced by Diane Arbus and Deborah broke through as one of the leading lights of the ated on his new roommate, Thor (Chris Zylka), thing to do with Lorelei’s uncanny witchcraft Turbeville, revealed an extraordinary talent but New Queer Cinema movement 20 years ago, the a quintessential blonde surfer dude who struts abilities and stalker tendencies). whose suicide at 22 in 1981 came decades be- youth-centric Kaboom is both a return to roots around naked, boffs a series of female bed part- Smith himself picks up a male hottie on the fore she received recognition from the art world. beach, jumps into a tryst with the Aussie-ac- Questions surrounding the artistic agenda laid cented London (Juno Temple) and finds plenty of down by Francesca’s surviving mother Betty, fa- CULTURE CLUB time to masturbate in between. London, a lively ther George and son Chuck play at the edges of little number, is as avid sexually as her new lover the movie—along with the cautiously discussed and her birthday present for Smith is the stuff of topic of Francesca’s enormous talent trumping wet dreams. Alas, though the sex lives of these all the other family members’. The result seems beauties are in spectacular overdrive as they both a tribute to the artist’s way of life and an drift through school, trouble’s afoot. Did Smith, unspoken cautionary tale. It’s at the Gene Siskel while tripping on drug-laced sugar cookies, re- Film Center, 164 N. State, through Thursday, ally witness the murder of a pretty red-haired Feb. 17. See http://www.siskelfilmcenter.org. lass by a group of men wearing animal masks, or —The late monologist Spalding Gray, an art- did he just get a bad dose? Are his nightmares ist of the spoken word is profiled in Steven really coming true? What do those threatening Soderberg’s And Everything Is Going Fine. e-mails mean? Is the world really coming to an Constructed from Gray’s own monologue films end? and videotaped performances (which include a As the sexual romping proceeds, Araki inter- vivid and humorous homosexual encounter Gray twines an array of mystery and paranoid-thriller had as an adult) the film is an illuminating, fi- elements, and the result—part screwball com- nal monologue performed by a man seemingly edy, part David Lynch and a whole lotta sexy haunted all his life by chronic anxiety and de- times—is a lovely melange. It’s easy to tag the pression. Although no mention of Gray’s own energetic, unapologetic Kaboom an extension probable suicide in 2004 is mentioned, the loss of Araki’s famed teenage apocalyptic trilogy of this bitingly funny, insightful storyteller is Thursday–Sunday through March 27, 2011 (The Living End/Doom Generation/Nowhere) for palpable throughout. It opens Friday, Feb. 18, Call 773-761-4477 or visit www.lifelinetheatre.com those familiar with this filmmaking renegade at the Siskel. and a great starting point for those just arriving Check out my archived reviews at http:// at the party. www.windycitymediagroup.com or http:// Teen Flick Exhibit B is a sci-fi blockbuster www.knightatthemovies.com. Readers can (produced by Michael Bay) called I Am Number leave feedback at the latter website. Four. These days it’s not enough for teen heart-

Dianna Agron and Alex Pettyfer in I Am Number Four. WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 16, 2011 23 MOVIES Gregg Araki on queer THOMAS BRADSHAW’S cinema and sexual identity WORK IS BY RICHARD KNIGHT, JR. generation. A lot of the younger people that I know—those that are the same age as those of Out writer-director Gregg Araki—avatar of the the cast in the movie (early 20s)—that’s very “LIKELY TO LEAVE YOU New Queer Cinema movement of the early ‘90s— much their experience. Their sexuality is just a is back in theaters (and On Demand) this week really important part of growing up and those with Kaboom, his first film since 2007’s stoner experiences whether they be gay, straight or comedy Smiley Face. otherwise or somewhere in the middle are all a SPEECHLESS!” Araki’s latest—the tale of Smith, a disaffect- very significant step in their evolution. It’s those —The New York Times ed, ambisexual college student (Thomas Dekker) steps that make you the person that you’re go- delving into mysterious occurrences on campus ing to be. That’s a major theme of the movie in (in between copious bouts of sex with various a way for me: These sexual experiences are not partners male and female)—is as audacious, there to be judged. funny and darkly energetic as the movies that WCT: Another issue here is labeling and the brought him initial fame as an outlaw indie film- need for people to do that. Liberal or con- maker. As Kaboom reveals, at 51, Araki hasn’t servative, it’s so ingrained—Are you gay? Are settled down creatively one whit (although his you straight? And I get that. I’m always want- technique has most assuredly matured) and this ing to tout “out” filmmakers like yourself and über-queer artist remains a lively, outspoken proudly proclaim movies like Kaboom as great proponent for Our People. examples of “queer cinema.” Do you have a Windy City Times: Kaboom is like the return problem with that? of New Queer Cinema 20 years on, right? GA: I don’t have a problem with it—depend- Gregg Araki: [Laughs] Oh, is that what it is? ing on who I’m talking to. I do consider myself WCT: Well, you yourself have said this har- predominantly gay although I’ve had major re- kens back to The Living End, Doom Genera- lationships in my life with women and again, tion, your college experience, etc. And once it depends on who I’m talking to. If it’s a case again you’re leading the charge here—the where it’s important to be black and white about idea of sexual labels being much more fluid it, I can be black and white about it. But if I’m has certainly changed in 20 years which you talking to someone who is more open minded I acknowledge right off the bat when Smith think there’s room to raise questions. I do think says that his sexual preference is “unde- its human experience and there’s room for the clared.” You have said there should be no la- mystery and the exception. bels, that there’s just “attraction and desire.” WCT: What about the specific label “queer Can you talk about that? movie?” GA: It’s a theme that I’ve been very interested GA: We won the first Queer Palm award at the in. Some of my earlier movies, particularly Doom Cannes Film Festival and, for me, that was a Generation and Nowhere, were rooted in this huge honor. It was an incredible, surreal experi- idea—that sexuality is a gray area and, for a ence to be in Cannes in the first place and the lot of people, it’s about experience and not so Queer Palm was the cherry on top of the sundae much about labels and categories. I don’t want for me. I think it’s both. I made the film for the to discount the importance of identity politics. outsider kids that are growing up out there in The more sophisticated answer that I’ve sort of some sort of little hostile small town. learned to give [laughs] on this particular press WCT: There’s a lot of ‘em. tour is that when I find that I’m talking about GA: There are. And one of the things that in- sexuality it depends on who you’re talking to, spired me to make this after the last few movies you know? was that I run into these younger people that Mary BY WCT: Yes. are fans of my earlier movies—in particular No- THOMAS BRADSHAW GA: I mean if you’re talking to a Sarah Palin where—and they come up to me at festivals and DIRECTED BY MAY ADRALES Republican, obviously it’s important to come out tell me how important the movie was to them and say, “I’m gay” and be confrontational about and how it got them through a really tough it, but I feel if like you’re talking to a sophis- time. Because they grew up in Kentucky or North ticated audience that is “on our side” [laughs] Dakota or some other God-forsaken place and at that point you’re able to open up questions it was my movie that helped them. And as a of what is gay, what is straight and what is the filmmaker, that’s sort of the highest compliment need for naming what people experience. anyone could ever pay you. So I wanted to make I think there’s obviously a huge importance Kaboom for the next generation, though I’m cer- to coming out and, particularly for young gay tainly not artistically in the same place and I people, to have positive models and gay pride certainly see life in a very different way now. NOW THROUGH MARCH 6 and a sense of community and all of that. But at The film is obviously not going to be Nowhere II the same time, it is very much like the character but it incorporates a lot of those themes. HURRY, BEST SEATS GOING FAST! London talks about in the movie: “It’s not the black and white”—particularly, for this younger Turn to page 35 Outrageous. Ruthless. Explosive. Named “Best Provocative Playwright” by the Village Voice, Thomas Bradshaw pulls no punches in his social satire Mary, which confronts hypocrisy and oppression with exhilarating wit.

DON’T MISS THIS FREE AUDIENCE EVENT! God’s Love is for All?: Homophobia and the Church | Monday, February 21 at 6PM Using Mary as a jumping off point, this panel examines the Biblical references used to justify the discrimination of LGBTQ peoples, provides some historical and contextual background, and looks at what people of faith are doing to make congregations welcoming and affirming. Moderated by Yasmin Nair, Chicago-based writer, activist, academic and commentator. Tickets are free, but reservations are required: 312.443.3800 or GoodmanTheatre.org

GoodmanTheatre.org 312.443.3800 Special discounts for groups PRINCE CHARITABLE TRUSTS of 10 or more: 312.443.3820 Gregg Araki on the set of Kaboom. Prince Prize for Commissioning Principal Support of Artistic Development Exclusive Airline of Original Work for Mary and Diversity Initiatives Goodman Theatre 24 Feb. 16, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES AR: I don’t. You know that I got myself off of usually 300 or 400 people that attend every year. to the vampire books are available again, free it because it was so hard to find. I didn’t want to People come from all over the world to show off and clear. We are eager to talk to producers that be dependent on this one brand. Diet Coke does the costumes and be part of the event. can really make a movie. We are getting a lot fine and Diet Pepsi. I made myself accept it. WCT: I read your latest book, Of Love and of interest and we are in talks. This is a great WCT: I remember that from book signings a Evil. I had missed your style of writing since time for us right now. The books were tied up long time ago. the last one I read. with studios and we couldn’t really do anything. AR: Oh yeah, I used to travel with an ice chest AR: Well, that’s good. I am glad to hear it. I I am hoping we will see new movies based on of Tab. I would drive everyone crazy. really loved writing about this character Toby. I Lestat. I love movies like my soul and just adore WCT: You were the J. Lo of your time [re like the idea that you can be picked up out of certain directors like Ridley Scott. I am hoping diva demands]! the world by angels and moved around in time something great will happen but I have nothing AR: “Anne has to have her Tab!” I heard an old to help with answering prayers. to report yet. lady in an airport once said, “Do you know Anne WCT: It’s the second book in a series of an- WCT: I heard there is a film version of Christ Rice takes a chest of Tab everywhere she goes?” gel books. the Lord: Out of Egypt. and the other lady said, “If I was Anne Rice then AR: Right, I am going to do a third but I am AR: That is in the works, too, with a really I would do that too, I guess!” taking off to do another book. I am writing great director but I can’t announce it yet. I re- BOOKS WCT: Hilarious. I drove down to Tennessee now about the ancient legends of Atlantis. It is ally admire this director and we are working on once to make one of your signings for a vam- about five immortals who come to the planet. I the paperwork now. There is interest in Angel pire book because the line was so long in Chi- am having a great deal of fun with this one. It is Time from Canada for a possible television se- Anne Rice cago. ries. It would show in America as well as Canada AR: There was a point when our signings were so that is exciting. on vampires, really huge. I think now with social media that WCT: You have really taken a stand for gays is not the case anymore. Back then, people re- right in the past and we all appreciate it. ally wanted to see each other at the signings. AR: Great. Tab and They would turn out in droves. WCT: You must be so thrilled that your WCT: You were so sweet and talked to peo- openly gay son, Christopher, turned out to be her gay son ple for a while. a writer also. AR: We did our best. Sometimes I felt like we AR: We are really writer buddies. We talk a lot BY JERRY NUNN were rushing people through. We did what we about our writing and we share the book world. could. I did a couple of eight-hour signings. I thought when he was growing up that he was Anne Rice is one of the most widely read authors WCT: Wow. It means a lot to fans. going to be an actor. He was in plays when he of our time. Ms. Rice has sold almost 100 mil- AR: I really get a lot out of it, too. I will be do- was in preschool. He blossomed in high school lion copies of her books and many have been ing a signing in Arizona in a couple of weeks. with musicals and sometimes had the starring made into feature films. It was high time to talk WCT: Do you miss New Orleans? roles. I was very surprised when he became a angels and devils with this writer ‘Of Love and AR: Oh, horribly. I will always miss New Or- novelist but very happy. We are very close. It is Evil.’ leans. But California is where I have to be now. I easy to love a child that makes you as proud as Windy City Times: Hello, Anne. How are Anne Rice. Photo by Matthias Scheer don’t think I will ever be able to go back and live Christopher makes me. you? in New Orleans. I had a wonderful time there. WCT: I love that. Anne Rice: Great, I just tore into the artifi- WCT: Do you still have a big Halloween party getting bigger and bigger. I will go back to Toby AR: We have a lot in common. We have done cial sweetener for the coffee here. I drink cof- there? O’Dare and the angels when I am finished with some events together. We just did one for a ben- fee all afternoon trying to stay awake. I don’t AR: The Vampire Lestat Fan Club does it. Only this. My brain is just exploding. If I die anytime efit at the West Hollywood Library. We talked know what is the matter with me lately. I keep one year did I actually take it over, and it was soon it will be at this table reading and writ- about writing from the stage and took questions wanting to sleep and dream, productive, but not called The Memnoch Ball—where, at the height, ing. from the audience. as directly productive as staying awake, reading of it we had 8,000 people there that year. They WCT: How much do you write a day? WCT: I noticed on Facebook that you have and writing, oh and doing interviews. [Laughs] always host it and they are still doing [it]. It is AR: I don’t really write finished pages every 170,000 friends now. WCT: Do you still drink Tab? day. When I sit down to do the novel then I re- AR: I think we hit it today. We use that page ally don’t stop, hardly at all. I can usually get 15 in a unique way. We have serious discussions to 30 pages done a day, maybe more depending on there. I post links there and other people on where it’s really going. Right now it’s more do too. We talk about politics, censorship, gay “POWERFULLY MOVING scribbling, dashing to the computer and making rights and healthcare. We talk about it all. It is A fully integrated vision by Director Darko Tresnjak of a modern-day notes. I have chapters done already but I had to sort of like having a radio station. Venice as chilly, sleek and calculating as any Wall Street house.” stop and let this thing explode. WCT: You are so approachable as a writer. –THE NEW YORK TIMES WCT: Do you wake up at night and write AR: I don’t understand the attitude of some sometimes? artists and writers that don’t think people get AR: I don’t get out of bed and write but I do what they do or don’t like their own audience. wake up when thinking about the novel and get I really think of my readers as part of my world. F. MURRAY ABRAHAM almost shattering revelations that will come on I have always loved meeting them and getting the edge of sleep. feedback. It is very organic for me. WILLIAM WCT: What advice do you have for writers? To purchase Of Love and Evil along with SHAKESPEARE AR: First of all, just write. Don’t let anything other classic works by Anne Rice, visit http:// stop you from getting the pages down. Writers www.annerice.com. For information on the are what they write. There is not a whole lot else Halloween party, visit http://vampirelestat- to it. I think also to have courage. It is almost fanclub.com. the same as having talent. You have to stand by that vision. You have to not cave to the people that criticize it or don’t get it. You have to go on with it no matter how weird it seems, the more eccentric the better. You just need to keep going. DIRECTED BY DARKO TRESNJAK WCT: Would you ever write a biography? AR: I did write a memoir called Out of Dark- ness. It is all about my Catholic childhood and going the church. It wasn’t a full scale autobi-

PERFORMED AS PART OF ography but there was a lot in there that was THE ROYAL SHAKESPEARE COMPANY’S COMPLETE autobiographical. I would go back and write WORKS FESTIVAL something but it would be big like a phone book so maybe more essays like that about various as- pects of my experiences. I feel like I have some experiences to share so I do want to do that. WCT: How do you feel about the movies made from your books? AR: I think only two movies were based on my work—Interview with a Vampire and the minise- MARCH 15–27 ries based on Feast of All Saints. The rest, Queen of the Damned and Exit to Eden, were not based on my work. The names were used but that was nää‡ÇÇx‡ÓäääÊUÊ about it. TICKETS AVAILABLE AT ALL BROADWAY IN CHICAGO BOX OFFICES AND WCT: Are there more movies coming? /  /
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/" -ÊUÊGROUPS 15+: 312-977-1710 AR: I hope there are more coming. The rights Photo: Gerry Goodstein WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 16, 2011 25 BOOK REVIEW Axis Sally: The American Voice “Lives up to its titillating title with of Nazi Germany by Richard Lucas a pitch-perfect story.” $29.95; Casemate Publishers; 320 pages —Chicago Sun Times REVIEW BY TRACY BAIM

It is not often that a book can offend me so quickly that I almost don’t go further than the preface. But the subject matter of Axis Sally: The American Voice of Nazi Germany interested me enough to move beyond the author’s own ho- mophobia, however unintentional. With a book about an anti-Semite convicted of treason, the words speak for themselves—additional bias is gratuitous. Axis Sally—a tale of one of the most notorious voices of Nazi Germany’s World War II-era propa- ganda radio programming—is, of course, a con- troversial subject. Mildred Gillars (1900-1988) was one of the primary American voices on Nazi SEX WITH radio, speaking anti-American comments aimed ler, and she claimed she stayed for love. When at the American troops and U.S. citizens back most Americans returned home when the war in home. Gillars was anti-Semitic and an opportun- Europe began in 1939, she remained and be- ist, in addition to being easily dominated by came part of the large overseas radio project what she believed was love from certain men. Germany supported to win the war of words on STRANGERS But author Richard Lucas almost lost me in the airwaves. She fell for former Hunter College the first paragraph of his preface: “Insinuating professor Max Otto Koischwicz (though he was By: LAURA EASON that Franklin Roosevelt was a homosexual sur- married with a family), and her loyalty was to Directed by: associate artist JESSICA THEBUS rounded by Jewish ‘boyfriends,’ her words were his radio efforts. As the book’s promotional ma- jarring and repulsive.” OK, Mr. Lucas, what is terial notes, “under his leadership, her position “repulsive” about homosexuality or Jewish boy- as a simple announcer escalated into master friends? I don’t even care whether Roosevelt was propagandist—becoming the messenger of Nazi gay; that is not the point. Lucas could have just propaganda and doom to the American GI. Gil- let Gillars’ actual anti-gay and anti-Semitic com- lars, a failed Broadway actress, learned fast and “Arresting, involving and ments stand, without telling us such allegations used her sexy, soothing voice to taunt troops shrewdly self-aware…another were “jarring and repulsive.” There was much about the supposed infidelities of their wives more that was actually repulsive in what Gillars and girlfriends back home, as well as describing provocative and timely play said, so using the unverified existence of homo- the horrible deaths they were about to meet on to emerge from Steppenwolf.” sexual boyfriends as his example really is offen- the battlefield.” —Chicago Tribune sive. [Later in the book we learn of a more direct Lucas sets the stage for events happening in comment Gillars made on the air in Germany on the world during critical times in Gillars’ life, May 18, 1943: “… I love America but I do not whether her pre-Germany attempts to achieve “Savvy, smart, funny, insightful… love Roosevelt and all of his ‘kike’ boyfriends stardom or her time during the war. We also who have thrown us into this awful turmoil.”] learn of another woman broadcaster known as filled with snap-crackle-and-pop I tried not to hold his preface against Lucas Axis Sally, but she was able to avoid treason dialogue.” charges. —Chicago Sun Times After the war ended, Gillars was eventually captured by the Americans, and some time later was returned to the United States to stand trial “Wry, wise and wonderfully humorous… for treason. While the United States now feared a multi-faceted love story.” the “red menace” of communism, Gillars’ trial in —Chicago Examiner 1949 still garnered much media attention, and she was always happy to give a quote or pose for the cameras. It was as if she saw this as just “Sexy, smart, intimate, unpretentious.” another stage play in her life. —Variety While other U.S. citizens avoided trial, and while some known Nazis were allowed to come “Crackles with energy and wit. “ to America and freely thrive in new careers, Gil- —Newcity lars was convicted of one of the more benign charges against her (acting in a radio play she didn’t even write), and was sentenced to 20-30 years in prison. She served 12 years and was paroled in 1961. The last part of her life was almost the polar opposite of the first part: she mostly avoided the photographers and reporters seeking her out. Axis Sally (Mildred Gillars) after her arrest Featuring: ensemble member SALLY MURPHY with STEPHEN LOUIS GRUSH Despite the subtle homophobia in the book in 1946. (in one place the author leaves unchallenged a comment by someone who thought a prison Two writers discover what happens when their online while reading the rest of the book. It is a fasci- questionnaire asking “Are you a lesbian?” and and offline identities intersect. nating story of a woman who was so focused on other personal questions “despicable”), I did en- herself and her show business dreams that she joy learning about this mostly forgotten chapter was easily convinced to broadcast and work at in broadcast history. It is a great companion to odds with her own country. When she was tried studies about the more well-known Tokyo Rose NOW PLAYING! for treason, she tried to justify herself (and she (Iva Toguri). My one quibble is that the book is claimed she had renounced her citizenship), but at times a bit repetitive. the author does solid work allowing Gllars’ words Lucas also provides photos and transcripts of Buy online at steppenwolf.org to speak for themselves when necessary. some of Gillars’ radio programs. Her words are Gillars first went to Germany in 1934, well be- what is truly “repulsive,” and Lucas gives us fore the United States changed from isolation- mostly unsympathetic context to understand or call 312-335-1650. ism to fighting in WWII (and that happened only just how and why this woman so betrayed her because Japan attacked Pearl Harbor). So when fellow Americans. she left, America was not fighting against Hit- 26 Feb. 16, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES NUNN ON ONE: ND: They came down in to do some of it Il- MOVIES linois. I think it is set in the North Shore, in a Center’s Oscar Wilmette kind of area. WCT: I know this because Demi went out to party Feb. 27 Nora Dunn on judging, the gay bar Hydrate after the shooting that On Sunday, Feb. 27, Center on Halsted, night. 3656 N. Halsted, will host its annual “On ND: Really? How cool! She is a great girl. I like The Red Carpet” Oscar Party. Demi and Jonathan Winters her. Guests will enjoy sponsored cocktails BY JERRY NUNN WCT: How does she stay looking so young? and buffet while the Academy Awards are Must be that young boyfriend… broadcast live on the big screen in the Nora Dunn first cracked up audiences on the ND: She is just a youthful person. She looks Hoover-Leppen Theatre. For those who pre- show Saturday Night Live with her imperson- great. She has that gravelly sexy voice. She has fer to mingle, video monitors will be sta- ations from Liza Minnelli to Ann Landers. She a lot of spirit that one. I didn’t get to work with tioned throughout the third floor—even has continued a long career on television with her. We just talked. My scenes were with chil- on the roof garden, which will be encased recent roles on Private Practice and Entourage. dren. in a heated tent exclusively for the night’s She bounces back and forth with the cinema as WCT: You also did a movie called Frankie event. Guests may bid on vacations, spa well with Pineapple Express and It’s Complicat- goes Boom. packages and more in our silent auction ed. By phone we talked Nunn on Dunn. ND: I just heard today that it has a really good throughout the evening. Windy City Times: Hello, Nora. I haven’t buzz already. I know this movie is going to be For the first time ever, the center is con- talked to you in a while. Where are calling me funny. It’s Chris O’Dowd and Charlie Hunnam; ducting an Oscar prediction competition. from? Chris Noth is in it also. It’s wild. I had to just let For $10, guests can submit a ballot with Nora Dunn: I am in L.A. Let me take my jacket go. It is about an inappropriate dysfunctional their predictions before the telecast be- off. family. gins, and results will be tabulated through- WCT: Must be nice. I am freezing here in WCT: I heard Ron Perlman is playing a trans- out the night. The person with the most your hometown of Chicago. sexual in it and had to shave off all of his correct predictions will be announced at ND: I have to say that I loved the blizzard. I body hair! the conclusion of the ceremony, and will don’t like being shut in for long but I did like ND: [Laughs] Yeah. split the winnings with the center. it. WCT: That I gotta see! Are you still doing a Doors open for the red carpet pre-show WCT: That makes one of us. What are you lot of television shows? at 6 p.m., and the telecast begins at 7 .pm. doing in Los Angeles? ND: I did the show Psych, which I liked a lot. Director-level tickets ($75) include admis- ND: I am out here to audition for TV stuff and I was the manager of an amusement park. I also sion to the party, and producer tickets work on my theatrical reel. The guys I work with played a lawyer on The Defenders. The pinnacle ($125) include reserved telecast seating in of my career is that I played a judge, finally, on the theater with table service. See http:// here are going to download it and put it on to Nora Dunn. DVD. Uh, oh; there is a man walking my way in Harry’s Law. My agent said, “It’s a good role.” www.centeronhalsted.org. pajamas. He can go from the house, to the store, Then I know I am in trouble! It was a thankless then right to the red carpet! WCT: There are a lot of funny people in the role. WCT: Oh, Hollywood. Do people recognize flick. WCT: You got to channel your inner Judge Burroughs special you on the street? ND: You know, Jonathan doesn’t even need to Judy? Feb. 22 on PBS ND: Not here; they are looking for bigger fish. work with anyone else. He is a human jukebox ND: Well, I wish. I played a judge once in a Featuring never-before-seen archival WCT: This new movie you are in called Cer- in a way. He is the originator of true improvisa- movie with Pierce Brosnan. It was really fun and footage of the legendary beat author Wil- tifiably Jonathan sounds interesting. How did tion. He can go from one thing to the next. You a real character. When you play them on TV you liam Burroughs, as well as exclusive in- you get involved with it? can give him a ketchup bottle. He called me one just say lines like “I will hear that.” And “No, terviews with colleagues and confidants ND: It turned out to be a great thing. I made night and said he was in a refrigerator, that his you are out of order.” It is not a real person. If including John Waters, Patti Smith, Iggy it years ago back in 2007. I had a fax from my wife had locked him in and was in there with all you have a lot of talent then you can make it Pop, Gus Van Sant, and Laurie Anderson, manager that two guys are making a movie with the condiments. He did a whole routine about that. I have a lot of adversity to committing to William S. Burroughs: A Man Within looks Jonathan Winters and they wanted other come- that. a main character in a series. If something was at the man whose works at once savaged dians involved in it. He is so funny. He did all WCT: That’s wacky. great I would crave it and want it. I haven’t seen conservative ideals, spawned countercul- that great improv and characters. I just thought ND: They have some wonderful footage of him too many things that I love since Glee. tural movements, and reconfigured 20th- he was so funny when I was little. There are a lot on the Jack Paar show where they just gave him WCT: I was thinking that show would be century culture. of comedians doing cameos but Jonathan will be a stick and he went with it. He is silly and crazy. great for you. Narrated by Peter Weller, with a sound- the first to tell you that he works alone! That is how I describe him. ND: I would like a crack at it sometime. It will track by Patti Smith and Sonic Youth, Yony WCT: [Laughs] He is very funny. WCT: I always think of him as the son of be on for a while. My claim to fame is I am still Leyser’s William S. Burroughs: A Man With- ND: He is not the straight man. The scene Mork & Mindy. working! in will premiere on the PBS series Indepen- that I like of me in the movie is when I am just ND: I think Robin Williams is Jonathan Win- Certifiably Jonathan plays for a short en- dent Lens, hosted by America Ferrera, on laughing at him. ters on fast forward. gagement at the Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 Tuesday, Feb. 22. (Check local listings.) WCT: Is it a documentary? WCT: Well put. You have a few movies com- N. State, from Feb. 18 through Feb. 24. Tick- ND: They have little words for these things. I ing out this year. ets may be purchased at http://www.siskel- guess you would call it a mockumentary. It is a ND: I did a fun movie with Demi Moore and filmcenter.org or by calling Ticketmaster at Cinema Q film documentary in a way, though. It documents his Miley Cyrus called LOL. It is a remake of a French 800-982-2787. series in Chicago career. He is a very interesting artist. A lot of the movie and the director rewrote the whole movie The Chicago Department of Cultural Af- movie is about his paintings. They animated the for America. I loved the set design. It had a fairs and Special Events, the Queer Film paintings. They are very witty and dark which is European look to it. There were a lot of good Society, the Center on Halsted and Chicago how his humor is. Then they fabricated a story shoots in the movie with really good actors. We Filmmakers are presenting Cinema Q, a new where he is in a men’s room in a park, a witch shot it up in Detroit. film series celebrating outstanding LGBT doctor came in and stole his sense of humor. WCT: I thought they shot some of it here in movies made in Chicago. Without his sense of humor he can’t work. Chicago. The free screenings will take place on four Wednesdays—March 16, 23, 30 and April 6—in the Chicago Cultural Center ’s DaveOuanoPhotography.com Claudia Cassidy Theater, 78 E. Washington, Events • Fashion • Fitness at 6:30 p.m. All screenings will feature a discussion and Q&A following the film. This series contains films with mature subject matter. Viewer discretion is advised. Films include Quearborn & Perversion: An Early History of Lesbian & Gay Chicago (March 16); Go Fish and outtakes from Fish Out of Water (March 23); JoJo Baby and two music videos of The Joans by Peter Neville (March 30); and Were the World Mine (April 6). For more info, visit http://www.Chica- goCulturalCenter.org or call 312-744-6630.

ModelMayhem.com/DaveOuano FACEBOOK: Dave Ouano Photography [email protected] WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 16, 2011 27 She walked away from her label and everything you always been dreaming of music? mainstream so it is a big feather in our hat to TC: In 2005 I got an award for being 30 years Ke$ha event have her here. She is coming down from Madi- in the business as an out musician. I have always son so we are picking up acts from all over the been out and suffered discrimination. People in at Enclave region. the past didn’t want to book me because I was Pop singer Ke$ha will be performing live WCT: Who else is playing in February? too outrageous. I had band members quit on me at the nightclub Enclave, 220 W. Chicago, TC: Stewed Tomatoes, who are huge in Chicago, because I wore a French leotard onstage. I didn’t after her performance at the House of Blues along with Ellen Rosner; I saw play before and know the difference between that and any other Thursday, Feb. 24. [she] has a fabulous backup band. This is not a leotard. They told me that was for women be- She is known for hits such as “Tik Tok” night where men are not allowed. I want to do cause it was a French cut. I asked, “How the hell and “Your Love Is My Drug.” something more inclusive. I wanted to make a do you know all about it?” Pre-sale tickets are $20 for general ad- statement in the second Fringe that this is a WCT: That’s “leotarded,” as RuPaul would mittance and $30 for VIP. A VIP ticket place for women and they will be supported here say. holder will have express entry and a pri- so I put a focus on it for the second one. Have TC: Yeah, it has been a long ride. To play at vate cocktail reception (9-10 p.m.). For you heard of Congress of Starlings? a place like the Elbo Room that is cool about more information and to purchase tickets, WCT: No, I haven’t. it. Maybe it says more about how things have visit http://www.EnclaveChicago.com or TC: It is a duo who are playing the acoustic changed in our culture but it was never that call 312-654-1230. Enclave doors open at stage. Scott plays first, then Tret and they will easy when I was coming up. 9 p.m. be third. I liked how it went last time with the WCT: Where is the name Boys’ Entrance audience moving up and down between the from? floors at the Elbo Room. TC: I was driving by a school on Belmont and Ariel Aparicio Tim Cain. Photo by Jerry Nunn WCT: It was good mix in the crowd as well. saw a door with a sign carved in stone that said coming out There were gay, lesbian, transgender and “Boys’ Entrance” and I thought, “That sounds straight people all there that night. like a band I should be in.” I started recording with ‘Aerials’ NUNN ON ONE: TC: I love it! my first album in ‘91. We have had four albums Brooklyn-based Cuban-American singer MUSIC WCT: How did this gay Lollapalooza get and a multitude of singles since that. Ariel Aparicio will be releasing his new al- started? WCT: Who is playing Fringe in March? bum, Aerials, via digital distribution March TC: I wanted to book my band, Boys’ Entrance, TC: I have Shawn Thomas coming in from Flor- 8 on Rock Ridge Music. Tim Cain: at the Elbo Room and called the venue. When I ida. He is an out gay Christian act from down “I wanted to make a dance record, but met with them I asked if they would consider there. He consistently has top 10 singles and with all guitars,” he said in a press release. Living on doing a whole night of gay music here. The man- won a lot of awards. He did a remix of one of my “I was trying to incorporate all the sounds ager said, “Yes, I think I booked the L’s, the G’s singles so we have been friends for a while. that I heard when I was first going out to and the T’s here all before so it would be cool to I have known this group for about 10 years clubs where they didn’t just play ‘dance the ‘Fringe’ have a whole night of it!” called The Fundamentalists that are coming from music,’ but would bring in all these other BY JERRY NUNN WCT: That’s great! Detroit for that same show. I am excited about genres that you can dance to and appeal to TC: They really have their stuff together and the regional talent as well as promoting local everyone.” Tim Cain has been bringing LGBT music to the a good reputation in the musician community. music. Among the songs on the CD is “Sorry,” an masses since 1991. He is hosting a monthly mu- What I really wanted to do was give gay mu- WCT: So it is a love fest? older fan favorite about Aparicio coming to sic festival called ABSOLUTE Fringe at the Elbo sicians a place that is a genuine rock club, a TC: ABSOLUTE-ly! terms with his sexuality. Visit http://www. Room where he performs with a variety of acts professional venue, that plays music seven days The last Sunday of the month is ABSO- arielaparicio.com or http://www.facebook. including his group Boys’ Entrance. a week year round. It is different than playing LUTE Fringe night at the Elbo Room, 2871 N. com/pages/Ariel-Aparicio/39944058816. Windy City Times: Hi, Tim. It was great at- a makeshift stage on a disco floor in a club Lincoln. Sunday, Feb. 27, will be girl-group tending your first Fringe night. or in a coffeehouse. I wanted lights and that night, so “chick” it out! For details and direc- Tim Cain: It was a good turnout. We had over whole level of professionalism. I think that is tions visit http://www.elboroomchicago.com. 50 people there so it was a nice start for us. the whole thing that will be benefit everyone. WCT: The next one is going to be mainly girl Everyone can play in a professional venue and groups. work up their chops. TC: Mostly. There will be some men present be- WCT: I loved seeing my friends The Joans WORLD PREMIERE cause in the group Plain Ole Delicious, her back- play at the last event. They did an awesome up band is male. The only act in the evening job. that is male is Scott Free. He will be performing TC: Yes, they did. They really brought it. in the acoustic lounge so similar to when we see WCT: Is there a dream act that you would him play a Homolatte gig. like to get? Do The Hustle WCT: The softer side of Scott... TC: Oh, there are a few that I am working on BY BRETT NEVEU TC: What is totally blowing my mind is that right now, like 8 Inch Betsy, who plays at the DIRECTED BY WILLIAM BROWN I got Tret Fure to play. She is a huge performer Flesh Hungry Dog shows. I would love to get The in women’s music. She started as a major label Gossip as well. Now playing at 325 Tudor Court, Glencoe artist and toured with Yes at one point. She has WCT: You have to get them! been at it for four decades. TC: They are international now and it is hard. WCT: Wow. How did you get her involved WCT: We can always dream… with the festival? TC: Lady Gaga is on the way to Chicago the TC: I saw her perform at one of Scott Free’s night before my February show. I would love to “GUINAN AND ANDREWS Q music festivals. I was blown away by her get the Scissor Sisters. Those are my dreams. and bought a bunch of her CDs at that show. WCT: They are good dreams to have. Have ARE SUPERB.” – CHICAGO TRIBUNE

“CLEVERLY WRITTEN... TERRIFIC.” – TIME OUT CHICAGO

“CALCULATING ‘HUSTLE’ STACKS THE DECK” – LAKE COUNTY JOURNAL

TICKETS ARE GOING FAST—ORDER TODAY! Corporate Production WRITERSTHEATRE.ORG Sponsor The Joans performed at a recent ABSOLUTE Fringe show. Photo by Jerry Nunn WRITERS’ 847-242-6000 THEATRE 28 Feb. 16, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES

Auto Show dazzles The Chicago Auto Show—running at McCormick Place through Sunday, Feb. 20—is even bigger and better this year. The show, spanning 1.2 million sq. ft. of the complex, showcases a com- plete range of domestic and imported passenger cars and trucks; sports-utility vehicles, experi- mental cars and concept autos. Interactivity is one of the key components of the event, with everything from a huge board in the Hyundai display area that patrons can play with to the Jeep and Chevrolet Volt test-driving tracks. Moreover, as the presence of the Volt and Nissan Leaf will attest, being green is also a goal of many carmakers; even the military (well- represented in one area of the show) highlighted vehicles, including tanks, what were more eco- friendly. Show hours are 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Feb. 11-19, and 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on the final day, Feb. 20. Regular admission for adults aged 13 and older is $11; for seniors aged 62 and older and for children ages 7-12, regular admission is $7. See http://www.ChicagoAutoShow.com. Photos and text by Andrew Davis CTO-2011-WindyCityTimes_V_5x13-5.pdf 1 1/5/2011 4:19:24 PM WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 16, 2011 29 NUNN ON ONE: COMEDY Kate Clinton has the last laugh BY JERRY NUNN

For over 25 years the comedian Kate Clinton has been keeping audiences chuckling in their chairs. Her views on politics and Catholic reli- gion have her a classic funny lady. She is rais- ing money for the New Friends of Palm Springs Animal Shelter at Dinah Shore Weekend and had this to say about it. Windy City Times: Hi, Kate. You have been a comedian for over 25 years? Kate Clinton: It’s true. Almost 30 years! In Ro- man numerals, that’s “xxx” for triple x-rated! WCT: That’s a long time. KC: I know! I just keep coming and going ev- ery day. It adds up. WCT: Did you always want to be a comedi- an? KC: I did. I loved making people laugh. It was sort of my family job. I was the Catholic school- girl class clown. Everyone would be laughing Kate Clinton. Photo by David Rodgers and I was the silent one, which meant that I caused it. I always wanted to do it but it wasn’t an option so I was an English teacher. It was dogs should have a country area to run free. It great preparation to do stand up comedy. humanizes people in New York, which is always WCT: I can imagine. a good thing. KC: If you can keep them amused on a spring WCT: You have a third book out called I Told day when they are already making more money You So. than you in college then that is an accomplish- KC: My books are collections of things that I ment. I was just talking about doing standup have written where I collect columns. That was when a friend of mine booked me in a club. over a five-year period, the end of the Bush re- That’s how it started. gime. C WCT: Really? WCT: Have you been partnered for a long KC: Yes, I did it and the next day my girlfriend, time? M who became my manager, told me I had to do it KC: Yes. We are going into our 23rd year.Y I more than once. That had never occurred to me. can’t believe it really. CM I just wanted to try it once. WCT: You have been in a relationship almost WCT: Like jumping out of an airplane just the whole time that you have been in stand-MY one time! up. CY KC: Yes! But she was way ahead of me. She set KC: Yes and for that whole 23 years she has it up and I came with the material. That’s how it said to me, “That show was too long but youCMY happened. need to do more politics.” I think, “When is thatK WCT: I have been watching a lot of stand-up going to be?” routines recently and think how hard it must WCT: Right—when can you squeeze it in? Is be. it hard being on the road? KC: Well, then I look at friends who are insur- KC: It is. I am trying to do sensible travel- ance salesmen and I think I couldn’t do that! ing: not Portland, Ore., then Portland, Maine. They would just pass out if they were told to do Somebody please look at a map! Comedy has a set of comedy. I am usually pretty confident been affected like the rest of the world with the unless I am starting out a show with a lot of economy. I love what I do. I still do. new material. It is a skill set. I probably can’t WCT: It’s called the Glee Party Tour, cor- do anything else at this point. I want to be the rect? Betty White of comedy. KC: I have been ragging on the Tea Party for- WCT: Oh, wouldn’t we all? ever. My girlfriend says I am just jealous. They KC: I love her! You watch her and you realize have all the money in the world behind them. how much she doesn’t do. She’s brilliant. They have insane people that are willing to do WCT: Speaking of comedic legends, you ap- anything. They are basically destroying the Re- peared with Lily Tomlin last year. publican party. KC: I did. I did a benefit with her in Prov- WCT: Lots of material for you, I am sure... incetown for their dog park. That’s why I am KC: I love it! It just keeps giving. There goes perfect for this event in Palm Springs. I am all George Bush and along comes Sarah Palin. She about the dogs. We had so much fun that we did could make you lazy. another show together in this fabulous theatre WCT: What are your plans for this year? in Staten Island. It was a blast. I did a set, then KC: My plans are to tour this show, the Glee she did some of her classic characters, then we Party. Hopefully, like the television show, people did a questions and answers section with the will start singing randomly. audience together. WCT: I was wondering if you watch it. WCT: So you are an animal lover. KC: Oh god, yes. The show is just so hilarious. KC: I am all about the animals. I support other There is an odd convergence of Sarah Palin and species. [Both laugh.] Sue Sylvester. They are really a lot alike. They WCT: Do you have any animals? have no regulator. Whatever is in their head KC: No, I am in apartment in New York that comes out their mouth. They are really in it to is a no pet building. I travel so much and even win. They don’t care. Somewhere in the middle, plants just seem to be sort of safe with me. I that’s me! don’t think it is fair to do that to a dog. Tons of Kate Clinton will bring the laughs at the Di- people come out of their apartments with eight nah Shore Weekend, with two shows Saturday, greyhounds. April 2, at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. For tickets WCT: Everyone was walking their dogs when and information visit http://www.theclassic- I was in New York last time. They have to be girls.com or http://kateclinton.com. overpopulated with them! KC: Yeah, there are dogs everywhere. I think 30 Feb. 16, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES

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An independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. BerlinChicago.com WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 16, 2011 31 FORUM from page 10 equality because, even within the gay commu- nity, there is some classism, you know that. It exists and I see it right now even in this mayoral election, where some individuals are thinking of business and economics before they think of anything else,” del Valle said. “I’m a mayoral candidate who’s going to put people first in our neighborhoods, in our com- munities throughout the city of Chicago and I will promote and fight for equality because if we’re going to really stand up and fight on these issues, the kind of issues you’re concerned about. ... It must be a matter of ensuring the city is representative and reflective of all seg- ments of the population.” Following the candidates’ turn at the mic, rep- resentatives from the coalition sponsoring the event addressed the crowd. They spoke of the three community forums held throughout the city late last year that contributed to the devel- opment of many of the questions asked both at Wednesday’s forum and in a questionnaire that all the campaigns completed. Responses to that questionnaire can be found on Equality Illinois’ website. The coalition is thought to be the first time such a broad range of LGBT groups came together to organize such an event. Julio Rodriguez—president of the Association of Latino Men for Action (ALMA), one of the par- ticipating organizations—described the forum as a first step toward further empowering the city’s many LGBT communities in the electoral process. “We need to make the queer, the LGBT com- munity become present in all of our elections,” Rodriguez said. “I think our next step is getting past this election and holding whoever wins ac- countable. I think a year from now, whoever is in that building not too far away, they need to be here again and we need to be broadcasting their response to a new set of questions: What have you done for me lately?” Bernard Cherkasov, CEO of Equality Illinois, added that, as part of its goal of fostering ac- countability, the coalition has launched the Chi- cago Appointments Project, an effort intended to strongly encourage the city’s next mayor to appoint well-qualified openly LGBT candidates for positions in their administration. The project is modeled after the Presidential Appointments Project, which has, to date, resulted in more than 150 LGBT presidential appointees under the Obama administration. Those who missed the forum’s live stream on Windy City Times and Radio Arte can watch it at http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/12578822. The election is Feb. 22.

LGBT law conference in Chicago March 4-5 The Chicago-Kent Lambdas is hosting an LGBT civil-rights conference March 4-5 at the Chicago-Kent School of Law, 565 W. Adams. Forums will cover subjects such as trans- gender rights; hate crimes and bullying; the history of criminalization; elder law; and marriage-equality legislation. There will also be an opening and closing recep- tion (sponsored by, respectively, Hinshaw & Culbertson and Goldberg, Weisman & Cairo. Activist Art Johnston, owner of Sidetrack and a co-founder of Equality Illinois, will deliver the keynote address at the con- ference’s opening reception at 6 p.m. on March 4 at the Michael Lew Gallery, 415 S. Sangamon. The public is invited, but people need to register for the free two-day event. Regis- tration is available at http://www.cklamb- das.com/register and all the information about the conference is at http://www. cklambdas.com. 32 Feb. 16, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES

Amy Armstrong and Freddy Allen Live at Francesca’s on Chestnut Join tal- ented cabaret duo Amy Armstrong and Freddy Allen this Saturday at Francesca’s on Chestnut, 8:30-11:30 p.m.. Fantastic food & drinks, fun atmosphere and music entertainment! 8:30 p.m., Francesca’s On Brought to you by the combined efforts of Chestnut, 200 E Chestnut St, http://www. facebook.com/amyfreddy The Gritty World Premiere of Bordello POP LIFE Chicago Dramatists will Present The World Friday, Feb. 18 Premiere Of Bordello, A Susan Smith Blackburn Prize Nominee, By Resident It’ll be Kylie Minogue’s Playwright Aline Lathrop. 8 p.m., (312) 633-0630, Chicago Dramatists 1105 W. (above) music all night Wed., Feb. 16 Chicago Avenue, http://www.chicagodra- long at The Call Chicago, SAGE Drama Troop Every Wednesday, ex- NIKKI SITUATION matists.org 1547 W. Bryn Mawr. press your inner Shakespeare or just like Sunday, Feb. 20 ham it up a little. Find another dimension (Note: The artist is not Sunday, Feb. 20 slated to be present.) of yourself with the SAGE Drama Troop. The Living Legends Black Living Legends Black History Celebra- Learn a little about stage performance, History Celebration will honor tion A Church 4 Me and the alumni of YPC while having loads of fun. Space is lim- people such as Nikki Patin (Frankie Foundation) present the annual ited. 2 p.m., Center on Halsted, 3656 N (right) at Center on Halsted, Living Legends Black History Gala, admis- Halsted, http://www.centeronhalsted.org sion to this event is food to be served af- 25th Ward candidates Chicago Teachers 3656 N. Halsted. ter event. Open to the public. Youth put & DJ Cody Domino and a surprise Perfor- Union debate for candidates; 6 p.m., Irma on spectacular performances and honor mance at Midnight each week! 10 p.m., C. Ruiz, 2410 S. Leavitt those who have paved the way for them Spin Nightclub, 800 W. Belmont Ave, Amy Armstrong and Freddy Allen Live at http://www.spin-nightclub.com Photo from Nikki Patin and honor Otis Mack, Sanford Gaylord, Nik- Rehab Join the zany and talented Amy ki Patin, Anna Deshawn, Otis Richardson, Armstrong and Freddy Allen for a night Nicole Scarver and more. 11 a.m., Center Friday, Feb. 25 Women of Concern Brigid Awards luncheon of cabaret and comedy at Rehab. 9 p.m., raffles, gift bags. 7 p.m., 773-615-0683, Rivera Dance Theatre (CRDT) marks Black on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted, http://www. Concern Worldwide will hold its annual Rehab Lounge, 3641 N. Halsted, http:// Entourage Man, 1355 S. Michigan, http:// History Month 2011 with a spectacular achurch4me.org Women of Concern Brigid Awards luncheon www.amyfreddy.com/music-and-comedy/ www.p-y-g.org live music and dance performance in its Dykes Pedaling Bikes Off-Season Social Join Spin every honors three outstanding Chicagoland $1 Drink Night at Spin And Baby Makes More: Known Donors, sixth annual “Jubilation” concert series Dykes Pedaling Bikes Off-Season Social – Wednesday for $1 Cocktails, Wine & Beer; women for their exceptional achieve- Queer Parents, and Our Unexpected Saturday, Feb. 19 at 8 p.m. (one-hour fam- everyone welcome; 2 p.m., T’s 5025 North featuring VJ Riley York, Teo, Bryan Smith ments. A silent auction featuring national Families This quirky, funny, and occasion- ily matinee Friday, Feb. 18 at 11am) at the Clark Street, http://www.windycitycy- and local celebrities’ new and gently used & DJ Cody Domino and a surprise Perfor- ally heartbreaking collection of essays Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport clingclub.com/ handbags and wallets will also be a high- mance at Midnight each week! 10 p.m., offers an intimate and unprecedented Avenue. 11am, 800-982-2787, Athenae- Story of My Heart: Queer Asians shar- light. The funds raised from this event will Spin Nightclub, 800 W. Belmont, http:// look at the relative risks and unexpected um Theatre, 2936 N. Southport, http:// ing with Queer Asians Stories from the support Concern Worldwide’s Maternal and www.spin-nightclub.com rewards of queer do-it-yourself baby mak- http://www.cerquarivera.org trenches of romantic love, a free special Child Health programs in Haiti, Rwanda ing and the ways in which families are re- I am the Queen film documentary The event is specifically created for the LGBT and Malawi. 11 a.m., 312-431- 8400, Thursday, Feb. 17 made in the process. 7:30 p.m., Women & story of the transgender youth pageant Asian American & South Asian commu- Renaissance Chicago Hotel, 1 W. Wacker, Run & Walk Chicago Planning Committee Children First, 5233 N. Clark, http://www. in Humboldt Park followed by a 6:30 - 8 nity only, organized by i2i, a queer Asian In order to help grow the AIDS Run & Walk http://www.concernusa.org womenandchildrenfirst.com p.m. reception/fundraiser to benefit the group in Chicago. Many of i2i events are Chicago and look for new ways to increase The Art of Human Rights Annual silent All You Drink Miller Lite Buffet!! Join us soon to come El Rescate homeless shelter open to the public, and to all ethnicities participation, we will be having a 2011 and live art auction at an after-work to help raise money for the Chicago Pride for LGBTQ youth in our community, $25. and orientations, but this events is more Planning Committee. 6 p.m., AIDS Foun- party which offers artwork from emerg- Invitational Bowling Tournament and 5 p.m., 773-278-6737, Roberto Clemente targeted. 10:15 p.m., Winston’s Cafe, dation of Chicago 200 W. Jackson, Suite ing and established artists as well as Scratch Masters held March 2011! $20 High School, 1147 N. Western, http:// 5001 N. Clark, chicago, http:// www.chi- 2200, http://www.aidschicago.org Heartland Alliance program participants, gets all-you-can-drink Miller Lite from www.vidasida.org cagoi2i.org benefiting Heartland Alliance’s work in Professional Young Gays Premiere Shop- 8-10 p.m.. 8 p.m., The Glenwood, 6962 N Club Kylie All Kylie Minogue, all night. Urban Village Church Wicker Park Worship Join Professional Young Gays‘ housing, health care, legal protections, ping Event Glenwood, http://www.cpi-chicago.org $4.50 Stella bottles, $1 DeKuyper shots. Services LGBT welcoming worship services and economic security to empower people board of directors for their premiere DJ Riley York. 9 p.m., The Call Chicago, at Urban Village Church are eclectic and with the tools to build better lives and shopping event. The night will feature Friday, Feb. 18 1547 W Bryn Mawr, http://www.cattle- experiential, practical and intelligent, rel- a special guest speaker, complimen- brighter futures. 6:30 p.m., Gruen Galler- Cerqua Rivera Dance Theatre’s Sixth An- callchicago.com evant and, hopefully, inspiring. 5:30 p.m., tary cocktails, light appetizers, exclusive ies. 226 W. Superior, http://www.artofhu- nual “Jubilation” concert series Cerqua Dance-Off With Ye Pants Off: Presidents’ 1502 N. Hoyne (at LeMoyne), http://www. manrights.com Day Edition Honor your nation’s glorious newchicagochurch.com/ LBTQ Women’s Film Nite The Lesbian Com- history in ye old drawers. Same set up as munity Care Project & SAGE (Center on normal; Check your pants and your coats Monday, Feb. 21 Halsted) collaborate to bring you a 40+ w/ Chip. Get a drink ticket (comp of RMS Live Band Karaoke with Amy Armstrong women’s film night. Join us for snacks & Marketing and Promotions) and dance, Every Monday at 10 p.m., Join Amy Arm- a great time! 7 p.m., Center on Halsted, hang out or the always fun stand outside strong for Live Band Karaoke! It’s Your 3656 N. Halsted, http://www.howard- and smoke pantsless. No cover. $4 well/ Stage with a 5-Piece Live Band! 10 p.m., brown.org domestics; 10 p.m., Scarlet, 3320 N. Hal- (773)281-3355, Roscoe’s Tavern, 3356 N Woke Up Black, a new documentary by Mary sted, http://www.scarletbarchicago.com Halsted St, http://www.roscoes.com Morten. The film follows five Black youths Saturday, Feb. 19 Tuesday, Feb. 22 as they journey into adulthood. 8 p.m., Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State, Miss Ruck ‘n Maul pageant Join the Chi- The Half Life of Sgt. Jen Hunter mini- http://www.wokeupblack.com cago Dragons Rugby Club for Miss Ruck staged reading Reading from Tracy Baim’s ‘n Maul. $20 at the door gets you two new novel, first seen as a play by the same drink tickets and many. many horrific drag name) by Bev Spangler and Kelli Strick- Saturday, Feb. 26 USA tour by Russian Gay Leader The Gay queens battling for the coveted title. Tick- land, actors read the experiences of a les- Liberation Network kicks off a national ets available online at www.chicagodrag- bian military sergeant who serves during tour by Russian Gay leader Nikolai Alekseev ons.org. 5 p.m., Sidetrack, 3349 N Halsted the Gulf War in the early 1990s, before and Andy Thayer. Merlo Public Library, 644 St, http://www.sidetrackchicago.com Don’ t Ask, Don’t Tell. 7 p.m., Women & W. Belmont, 2 p.m., 773-209-1187, Merlo Sappho’s Salon: A Provocative Night of Children First, 5233 N. Clark, http://www. Public Library, 644 W. Belmont, http:// Lesbian Diversions Popular monthly salon womenandchildrenfirst.com www.gayliberation.net night for lesbians and their friends invites Drag Race with Frida Lay Chicago’s only all lesbian-identified women to show us amateur drag contest has been a hit at what you’ve got in the Lesbians Got Talent Roscoe’s since it’s premier in 2000. $300 Sunday, Feb. 27 Absolute Fringe, all chick bands all night show, featuring guest judges Ripley Caine, is Cash Prizes - Come show us what you’ve Last Sunday of each month, LGBT music C.C. Carter and Searah Deysach; $7-$10 got girls! 11 p.m., 773-281-3355, Ros- festival, this time with Ellen Rosner, Plain sliding scale for food and wine. E-mail coe’s Tavern, 3356 N. Halsted, http:// Ole Delicious, Stewed Tomatoes. $12 at Kathie at [email protected], sub- www.roscoes.com door, $10 online; 8 p.m., 773-549-5549, ject line: “talent.” Participation is limited, Elbo Room, 2871 N. Lincoln, http://www. so sign up now. A few walk-up spots will Wed., Feb. 23 elboroomchicago.com be available on a first-come, first-served You’re The Star Karaoke with Honey West Oscar Party Party with the stars at Side- basis. 7:30 p.m., Women & Children First, Every Wednesday with Honey West! Sing track. Win your chance to watch the 5233 N. Clark, http://www.womenandchil- Out, Louise! Take your place in the spot- show from the “Sidetrack Starbox”: every drenfirst.com light! There’s not a bad seat in the house. hour, four people will win a chance to sip FURR Chicago All the furriness you’ve come 10 p.m., 773-281-3355, Roscoe’s Tavern, ‘WOKE’ OF LUCK complimentary cocktails served up by the to expect from Chicago’s hottest hirsute 3356 N. Halsted, http://www.roscoes.com scandalous Golden Oscar Boys. 7 p.m., hoedown, plus DJ Boxxxcutter! 10 p.m., $1 Drink Night at Spin Join Spin every Friday, Feb. 25 Sidetrack, 3349 N. Halsted, http://www. Cell Block, 3702 N Halsted, http://www. Wednesday for $1 Cocktails, Wine & Beer; sidetrackchicago.com cellblock-chicago.com featuring VJ Riley York, Teo, Bryan Smith The documentary Woke Up Black, helmed by Mary Morten, will premiere at the Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State. Get : WindyCityMediaGroup.com online ChicagoPride.com WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 16, 2011 33

In GlassBar & SideBar... BILLY MASTERS

and then the unthinkable happened—Steve and “Hire a stunt person to fall on someone every Eydie were singing “Our Love Is Here To Stay” three or four weeks—that’ll keep the audiences and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. The old showing up!”—Joan Rivers gives director Julie magic was back. Then Eydie led a rousing ver- Taymor an idea of how to keep the musical Spi- sion of “Happy Birthday” to Mark Sendroff—a der-Man: Turn Off The Dark from becoming the fête that won’t soon be forgotten. Of course, most expensive flop in Broadway history. Listen photos and even that historic video will appear to Auntie Joan—she knows a thing or two about on BillyMasters.com. flops! Our “Ask Billy” question comes from Zane in This column is all about love—people I love, Toronto: “What do you know about that hot things I love, people and things I’d love to love, blond guy in the trailers for ‘I Am Number Four’? the song “Love to Love You Baby”, love, love, I have no clue who he is, but he’s gorgeous!!!!” love. That’s because this column hits the street That would be British actor and model Alex on Valentine’s Day. And I know that because my Pettyfer, who appears to have sprung up out of birthday was yesterday, and I love my birthday. nowhere (aside from some ads for Ralph Lauren Valentine’s? Eh, we have a complicated relation- and The Gap). I do immediately have to identify ship, but that’s something for us to work on him as heterosexual, although he is not inter- in couples counseling. For now, let’s focus on ested in discussing his relationship with co-star love. Dianna Agron (from Glee) other than to say Gay people love Cher. Last week, the Dark Lady they are not engaged. Despite some rumors to wrapped up her Caesars Palace run to focus on the contrary, I’m told that Alex is very down to completing her new CD and plan her upcoming earth, humble and missing that quality so many national tour. So it was no surprise that the domestic actors have—that feeling of entitle- faithful trekked to Las Vegas to pay homage to ment. In fact, he had to be forced to audition their queen—and among the throngs and multi- for“I Am Number Four. He simply felt that there tudes was Kathy Griffin. Prior to leaving L.A., she tweeted a photo of herself decked in an eerily Cher-esque ensemble (circa “Turn Back Time”), with a caption (in Tweet-speak) that read: “Off 2 Vegas 2 c closing nit 4 the FAB @Cher. Have 2 return her outfit she doesn’t exactly no I bor- rowed ;)” Truth be told, Kath looked pretty good in that drag. At the concert, she ran into one of the divas of drag—the delightful and virtu- ally legendary Randy Roberts. Those two Cher Sidetrack The Video Bar ® nuts posed for the paps and then made their 3349 N. Halsted way backstage to share libations with the Half SidetrackChicago.com Breed. As much as I love Kathy, Randy and Cher, I couldn’t join them in Vegas because I love Mark Sendroff more. These columns have oft chroni- cled the wizardry capable of this lawyer to the Joan Rivers had a little advice for Spider- stars. There is nothing he can’t do—both pro- Man’s Julie Taymor. fessionally and personally. And that was highly evident when those he loves most came from was no way he could carry a big sci-fi thriller. near and far to gather in Beverly Hills for a He actually walked out of the audition, saying, sumptuous feast. Yes, it’s true that the average “I’m sorry. I’m not right for this. I can’t. I don’t age was somewhere between 60 and death, and want to muck up your movie.” After passing on that’s just how I like it—I’ll go anywhere if it dozens of other actors, the casting people called means I’ll be considered a “twink” (next stop, Alex back in two weeks later. At that point, he Zsa Zsa’s house). I was at the “kiddie table” with thought he had nothing to lose. He screen-test- Bruce Vilanch, Sam Harris, Michael Orland, Nancy ed, Spielberg liked what he saw and the rest is Dussault and her hubby, Val. The next table had history. Karen Morrow, Julia Murney, Jason Graae, Mimi Speaking of history, let’s talk about a movie Hines, Jimmy James, Armelia McQueen, David in his past. There’s a little British slasher flick Engel and Ken Page. Off in little nooks around I’m sure none of you saw called Tormented. One the room one could spy Steve Lawrence and Ey- reason to watch it is because you get to see all die Gorme, and Bob Mackie and his adorable as- of Alex during a very steamy, hot, almost ani- sistant, Joe, who were on diva duty tending to malistic sex scene with some girl in the backseat Marilyn Maye. At one point, I locked eyes with of a car. Aside from showing Pettyfer’s anatomy the dashing Gregory Harrison. Towards the end from a variety of angles, it actually contains a of the night, Carole Cook and Tom Troupe wan- message—the girl stops Alex at the moment of dered in—they were in the neighborhood and I entry by producing a condom from inside her think responded to the whiff of formaldehyde in bra! See? It’s a safe-sex film. You can watch the the air! It was as if someone mounted a musical entire scene on BillyMasters.com. version of Cocoon—which I suppose makes me When I’ve completely forgetten the theme of Steve Guttenberg. the week, it’s definitely time to end yet another The evening was filled with love, fabulous column. Oh yeah—love! I guess I was distracted food, fond reminiscences and more love. People by the hot sex in the back seat of a car. Person- got up to sing—Sam Harris, Marilyn Maye, Nancy ally, I always enjoyed the front seat—there was Dussault, Mimi Hines, Danny Guerrero (who orga- a time I couldn’t have an orgasm unless there nized the show portion of the night)—and were was a steering wheel between my legs—but all accompanied by the masterful Michael Orland. that’s another story, and we simply don’t have But the best was yet to come. A few years ago, space for yet another anecdote. In fact, we cut Eydie Gorme said farewell to the stage. I still so much gossip for print, you best check out bemoan the fact that I never got to see her live. www.BillyMasters.com to see what you’re miss- When Steve Lawrence got up to sing, I turned to ing. If you’ve got a question, drop a note to Sam and said, “You don’t think.....” “Nah, she’ll [email protected], and I promise to get never do it,” said Sam. At that moment, I spied a back to you before I take to carrying a condom little, slightly hunched-over lady quietly inching in my jock strap (well, they all end up in there her way towards the front. The moment the light sooner or later). Until next time, remember, one hit her, she was erect, swinging and snapping, man’s filth is another man’s bible. 34 Feb. 16, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES Taylor isn’t alone in his support for the LGBT community. His fiancée, Lia Alexandra Manda- ‘Hancock’ Feb. 27 Hudson Taylor starts glio, is right beside him. The two are getting “Hustle Up the Hancock,” sponsored by the married Sept. 24. Respiratory Health Association of Metropoli- sports ally program “She and I share all the same beliefs and out- tan Chicago, will take place Sunday, Feb. 27. looks on the world,” Taylor said. “Actually, if it The full climb is sold out. However, CBS2 wasn’t for Lia, I probably wouldn’t be where I am Half Climb (52 floors) and Lung Health Cham- By Ross Forman today. As passionate as I am about being an ally, pion spots are still available. The total entry

speaking out and making a difference, while I fee, due at the time of registration, is $110 Hudson Taylor started out as a theatre major at was an undergraduate [student], Lia was a big for the half-climb and $110-$130 for the the University of Maryland. He was often around part of that equation for giving me the self- lung health spot. (The Lung Health Champion gay actors and actresses, even being there dur- confidence to start speaking out. Even though slot has a mandatory additional fundraising ing their coming-out processes. I was very sure in my outlook and how I saw amount of $920.) Taylor also was a standout collegiate wres- things, I think I needed that extra bit of support See http://www.hustleupthehancock.org. tler—where he often encountered homophobia from Lia to take that next step and keep pushing in its seemingly most common arena: the locker further and further and further, and doing more room. The language bothered him. and more and more. We’re very much a team in LPL bowling “So, as an All-American and team captain [as everything we do.” a senior during the 2009-2010 season], I real- Of note: Taylor is being honored by Parents event March 19 Lincoln Park Lagooners will hold a “Candle- ized that I was in a position to make a differ- and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) with light Bowl” Saturday, March 19, at Timber ence on my team,” said Taylor, who is straight. its Straight for Equality award, given to an Lanes, 1851 W. Irving Park. Registration is at He started by trying to correct his teammate’s ally of gay rights. PFLAG’s Straight for Equal- 8:30 p.m.; bowling starts at 9:30 p.m. inappropriate language. ity award is in its third year and previously has Two-person teams will compete, with a fee Then he took a huge leap of faith to show that been presented to author Maya Angelou (2009), of $30 per person. First prize is $100, second he doesn’t just talk a good game. Taylor put a entertainer Liza Minnelli (2010), actress Sigour- is $75 and third is $50. sticker on his wrestling head gear—it was the ney Weaver (2009), NFL linebacker Scott Fujita Reserve spots by March 12 at http://www. blue and yellow, representing the Human Rights (2010) and diversity pioneer Johnnetta B. Cole. LPLChicago.com or 773-742-0793. Campaign (HRC). For more information about Taylor, or to “I consider myself a fairly rational person, sign the Athlete Ally pledge, go to http:// and me speaking out as an ally could never do www/athleteally.com. more harm to myself than it could do good for Hudson Taylor. others,” Taylor said. “It affects me when I see young LGBT kids taking their lives. It affects me to know that sports may or may not be part of “I learned a very important lesson,” he said. “My the problem. I love athletics; I love coaching. teammates were pretty receptive when I was try- I’ve been involved in wrestling for the past 18 ing to advocate for word consciousness. But all Series’ Super Bowl fundraiser years. I think I have the ability to make a differ- of a sudden when I wore the HRC sticker, it be- ence and, in some ways, a responsibility to make came very divisive, very political. All of a sud- a difference.” den, sides were taken. And I lost some friends He did as an undergraduate, and still is a ma- from it. Or I should say, I realized who my friends jor league supporter. were, and who I didn’t want to be friends with. Taylor created the Athlete Ally Pledge and That was pretty difficult.” Whydoyoufight.org blog to gather support from Taylor said there was no specific issue or in- athletes and advocates around the country. Tay- cident that pushed him to wear the HRC sticker. lor is on a mission to encourage others to join Rather, “to repeatedly hear the anti-gay lan- him in building a fully respectful sports culture, guage, and have friends who are gay, it rubbed and Hudson is authoring, The Athlete Ally: Em- me the wrong way. It made me want to speak powering a New Era of Leadership and Inclusion out.” in Sports. The Athlete Ally will guide and inspire Taylor actually bought the HRC sticker at the coaches, athletes, administrators, fans and par- organization’s store in Washington, D.C. ents who are eager to redefine what it means to “I put the sticker on my headgear really just be an athlete and a leader. because actions speak louder than words,” he “I thought the pledge was a really good place said. “Initial reactions were, ugh, kind of comi- to start,” he said. “Little by little, the change cal. Many didn’t know what the sticker was, would be beneficial—and sports no longer so I told them it was for the Human Rights would be the last closet and, instead, an open, Campaign”—and he also explained what HRC accepting, inclusive environment.” does. The Athlete Ally pledge asks the public to sign “For some of my teammates, it made them an online form, encouraging athletes, coaches, very uncomfortable. In fact, some teammates parents, fans and other members of the sports threatened to take the sticker off. Some played community to respect all individuals involved in cat-and-mouse [games] with my head gear. They sports, regardless of perceived or actual sexual- were trying to express that they didn’t approve orientation or gender identity or expression. [of the sticker].” His website posts the total number of sig- After several weeks wearing it, Taylor volun- natures, which is more than 1,300 as of early tarily removed the sticker. February, and it’s been active for only a few “It was beginning to feel more and more like months. my advocacy was overshadowing why I was “It’s going really well,” said Taylor, who has there: to win a national championship. Plus, I even been pushing to get college athletes to figured I’d have the rest of my life to be an ally bring the pledge to their athletic departments. and advocate,” Taylor said. Taylor has received hundreds of e-mails from As a senior in 2010, Taylor went on to finish around the world, all supporting his support for fourth nationally. the LGBT community. Many from young LGBT ath- He is now an assistant coach at Columbia Col- letes, as well as parents of LGBT athletes, “many lege, and has been applying to law school for The annual Joe Green Super Bowl Bash, held Feb. 6 at Spin Nightclub, attracted about 250 who just do not have a voice in this fight,” he the fall. attendees and raised close to $4,000 for the 2011 Gay Softball World Series, which will be said. “It’s been quite a process.” “I have so much more that I want it to do, held in the Chicago area this summer. Moreover, it has not always been a smooth that I think it can do. In order for that to hap- “This was a great event and we were thrilled that Joe would partner with the 2011 Series road. Take the athlete who reached out to Taylor pen, and to push it to that next level, I am seek- for this event and a wonderful fund-raiser; this really shows what kind of person Joe is,” about five months ago. The athlete is closeted, ing non-profit status [for Athlete Ally],” Taylor said Jack Neilsen of the Chicago Metropolitan Sports Association (CMSA), which is the local in high school. “He’s very alone, very scared, said. host for the upcoming Series. doesn’t feel comfortable coming out to his dad, “I don’t think the majority of athletes would Neilsen confirmed that the three official charities for the annual Talent Show at the Se- who often uses [anti-gay] language. And he’s consider themselves to be homophobic. But I ries will be Howard Brown Health Center, Illinois Safe Schools Alliance and the Families’ & just one of many,” Taylor said. “People such as think homophobic language has become a stan- Children’s AIDS Network. Neilsen said series organizers are shooting to raise $35,000 at the him make my efforts very real, very meaningful. dard in athletics. Phrases like, ‘That’s so gay,’ talent show, which would be split three ways. “People often forget that, yes, there are people and ‘No homo,’ or ‘Don’t be such a fag’ are com- Neilsen also said that organizers are now planning for as many as 190 teams, which would who are affected by homophobia and bullying— monplace in the locker room. A lot of athletes crush the previous series record (149 in Columbus, Ohio, in 2010). and I think there’s a need and responsibility to may not feel like that’s a problem, or something In addition, he said that the 2011 Series will, for the first time ever, include a master’s do something about it.” they should change, but that’s a product of ath- division for athletes age 50 and older. The new division is inspired by the success of Chi- Even if speaking up is not popular, as Taylor letics. And that’s at the heart of the issue, and cago’s annual Senior Cup. Text and photos by Ross Forman found out at Maryland. what we need to work to change.” WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 16, 2011 35 ARAKI from page 23 Heartland’s WCT: You have this way of presenting the younger generation that seems very real, very ‘Art of Human unforced. What’s the secret? GA: This is one of the most amazing casts I’ve Rights’ Feb. 25 “The Art of Human Rights”—Heartland ever worked with. They’re part of this new gener- Alliance’s annual silent and live art auction ation of actors that really are about doing work featuring unique works of art from across that is creative and challenging and that pushes the world, gourmet fare, cocktails and the envelope as opposed to doing the same old music—will take place Friday, Feb. 25, at formula crap that’s out there for young actors. Gruen Galleries, 226 W. Superior, 6:30-9:30 They were all excited to take the risk; to walk p.m. the plank with me. Individual tickets start at $125 ($150 at WCT: How many takes did you shoot of the the door). See http://www.heartlandalli- young actor trying to give himself a blow ance.org/howtohelp/events/artofhuman- job? rights. GA: [Laughs] Not many! We didn’t have the budget or the time to do many retakes. When- ever you shoot any sort of sex or nude scenes Starr honored it’s just really, really important to make the set feel super, super safe and comfortable. So it’s at ‘Divos’ event closed and no one’s there but the camera man, Windy City Times photographer Steve the sound person, it’s really like a safe place Starr was among those honored at Info- Maven’s “Divos” event, held Feb. 8 at the and I always make a point to tell all the actors Chris Zylka in Kaboom. individually that they have my ear. House of Blues’ Foundation Room. WCT: How does the “young queer director”— The Divo series honors influential men in the label that has followed you around for 20 WCT: Let’s circle back to that “label” thing But I just think it’s a very private matter and it areas such as media, fashion, fitness, music years—go forward as you are now middle- one more time. A batch of queer directors in is loaded and it is true that if you’re Tom Cruise and sports. aged? Are you yearning to do something in a the past year or so have advised gay actors or something, you’re in a really difficult position Lenox Magee, a former Windy City Media different direction? to stay in the closet if they want to become because the audience that you’re appealing to is Group associate who now heads 360 Maga- GA: I’m still a young queer director! [Laughs] leading men in Hollywood. What are your not sophisticated, not educated and not really zine, was also honored. Among the other My thing as a director is really that it’s impor- thoughts on that? enlightened. So, when you’re on a mass global 14 honorees were FanFueled Tickets CEO/ tant to continue to grow and to make all dif- GA: My thoughts are really that, especially for level like that, it’s a tricky situation. But I guar- Founder Anderson Bell; Music Masters En- ferent kinds of movies. One of my pet peeves actors who are completely in the public eye, [is antee you somebody’s going to do it. Somebody tertainment owner Corey Sanford; and New- is directors who make the same movie over and that] it’s completely their decision. I feel that of this generation. man Reality owner/broker Scott Newman. over again. I feel like it’s important to stretch it’s up to them. It would be awesome, obviously, WCT: They’re going to see Kaboom and say, Photos at http://www.WindyCityMedia- and grow. The films that I’m working on now are if there was a Robert Pattinson or somebody like “Fuck it, I’m coming out.” Group.com by Starr all sort of different. that that would come out and say, “I’m gay” and GA: [Laughs hard] That would be great; that WCT: Anything specific you can talk about? there would be some trail blazed in that way, would be great. GA: It depends on which one gets the money and I do think that’s going to happen in our first. [Laughs] lifetime. CONNEXIONS MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS

Ray J. Koenig III and Clark Hill PLC The Law Offices of Ray is a legal authority on all of his Alexander Weaver practice areas, which include probate, trusts, guardianship, estate planning, and elder law, including the litigation 312-588-5005 of those areas. He is a longtime advocate for and member of the email: [email protected] LGBT community, and is involved in several charitable groups, community associations, and professional A Full Service organizations. Ray is a member of Clark Hill PLC, a full-service law firm consisting of a diverse team of attorneys and Law Firm professionals committed to our clients and our communities. for the Community Tel: 312.985.5938 | Fax: 312.985.5985 [email protected] | clarkhill.com since 1988

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